Local man, Paul Holloway, has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London
Local man, Paul Holloway, has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London in recognition of his commitment to charity and service groups, and his exceptional contribution to the London Borough of Bexley.
Paul has served as an integral part of the Council’s Mayoral team for over 36 years, acting as the Mayor’s macebearer and chauffeur. He has built long-lasting friendships with members of local service groups and residents in the Borough and is a prolific charity fundraiser in his spare time.
He was nominated for the award by two active Liverymen, Flt Lt Kris Cottier, the unit commander of 358 Welling Squadron Air Training Corps and RAF Air Cadets, and Robert Munson of the Rotary Club of Bexley.
Kris Cottier said of his nominee: “Paul is one of those people who just make the London Borough of Bexley a better place to be. Quietly and efficiently going about his formal and charitable work, he always has a smile for those he meets. I wholeheartedly feel he is truly worthy of the accolade of a Freeman of the City of London.”
The Freedom of the City of London is a medieval tradition that awards the recipient the freedom to enter and leave the City at will, as a trusted friend of the City. The tradition is a celebration of the ancient right to drive sheep over London Bridge.
During COVID, freedom ceremonies were held online, but Paul opted to wait until face to face ceremonies resumed, and he received his well-earned award in November 2021. Bexley’s Mayor, numerous Past Bexley Mayors, Council Members, staff, service group members, friends and family gathered at Bexleyheath’s Twin Palace Restaurant recently to celebrate with him.
