Outstanding trio honoured by Council

17 May 2023 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news

Three outstanding individuals have been awarded the Freedom of Northumberland for their exceptional service to the county.  

Tony Gates, Chief Executive of Northumberland National Park, Winton Keenen QPM, former Chief Constable of Northumbria Police; and Elizabeth Morgan, former Executive Director of Public Health were given the title of Honorary Freeman/Freewoman and presented with a special pin brooch and certificate at the Annual General Meeting of the Council. 

Council Leader Glen Sanderson said: “I am so proud to formally honour these three outstanding individuals who have given and continue to give great service to the county and our communities. 

“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.   

Recently retired 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. He 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.