Freedom of Northumberland

Three "outstanding individuals” awarded Northumberland's Highest Honour

Three "outstanding individuals" have been awarded the Freedom of Northumberland in recognition of their exceptional service to the county. 
 
Northumberland County Councillors voted to award the title of Honorary Freeman/Freewoman to Tony Gates, Chief Executive of Northumberland National Park, Winton Keenen QPM, Chief Constable of Northumbria Police; and Elizabeth Morgan, former Executive Director of Public Health. 
 
Council Leader Glen Sanderson said: “I am delighted that the council is able to recognise and say thank you to three outstanding individuals who have given and continue to give great service to the county. 
 
“Awarding the Freedom of Northumberland is the highest honour we can bestow – and while it can never be thanks enough for all that they have contributed, it’s really important that we have the ability to recognise those in our county who have gone above and beyond in their roles.”   
 
Tony Gates is the Chief Executive of Northumberland National Park Authority; a post he has held since November 2005 and is recognised as a true champion of the county and rural communities.  
 
Winton Keenen, QPM, has spent the past 38 years in dedicated service to Northumbria Police and received the Queen's Police Medal for distinguished service in 2021. The police chief is credited with leading the force to achieve the very highest levels of public confidence and citizen safety and played a crucial role in the region's response to Covid.  
 
Liz Morgan, who stepped down from her role as director of public health at the Council in December last year, played a vital role in steering the county through the COVID-19 pandemic. Her strong leadership and guidance throughout won her widespread praise.  
 
The Freedom itself carries no privilege and is purely an honour as recognition of significant and valuable services rendered to the County. 
 
An extraordinary meeting of Council will take place in May where they will be presented with a pin brooch and gift and given the opportunity to address the Council. 
 
 
  
  
 
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