Twelve local figures honoured in Nuneaton Civic Awards ceremony

A butcher whose family business has fed the Borough’s residents for generations was made an Honorary Freeman.

Twelve local people have been honoured in the Nuneaton Civic Awards ceremony.

Four former councillors were nominated to be Honorary Aldermen and Alderwomen.

The award of Honorary Alderman and Alderwoman is given to individuals who are, in the opinion of the councillors, have made a significant contribution to the well-being of the citizens of the Borough and have upheld the ideals of the Council. 

The former councillors are Bob Hicks, Geoff Ashford, Sonja Wilson and Sheila Hancox.

Cllr Kris Wilson, Leader of Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, said: “Through these awards, we aim to continue to restore civic pride in the Borough.

“It is an honour to provide these distinctive individuals this reward for their efforts for their dedication and unwavering service to Nuneaton and Bedworth.”

The title of Honorary Freeman or Freewoman was also given out at the event. This is the highest award a council can give to a citizen of the Borough. 

It is given to an individual who has given exceptional service to the Borough and its communities over a long period of time or someone who has brought renown and great kudos to the Borough.

This was given to butcher Frank Parker, whose family business has fed the Borough’s residents for generations, and whose name is also well known as a generous sponsor of local amateur football over many years.

Abeda Vorajee MBE was made a Freewoman for her services to the Borough as a longstanding contributor to education as a teacher and governor, forming and chairing the Nuneaton Muslim Women’s Group, chairing the Local Ethnic Minority Advisory Council, and Trustee of Warwickshire Race Equality Partnership. 

Carol Valentine, Julie Earnshaw, Gareth Edwards, Martin Bradley, Murray Richards and Paul Gough were also awarded the honour.