Councillors have called for England football team manager Gareth Southgate to be honoured with the Freedom of the Borough of Harrogate.
Mr Southgate, who lives near Swinsty Reservoir, guided the England men’s team to their first major championships final in 55 years last night.
While there is talk nationally of a knighthood, attention has turned locally to awarding him the freedom of the borough — which is the highest honour Harrogate Borough Council can bestow.
Among those to have received the accolade, which is reserved for people who the council deem to have ‘rendered eminent services to the district’, is Jonathan Wild, the former chief executive and chair of Bettys and Taylors.
Six councillors, including the mayor, told the Stray Ferret today they would back a motion for Mr Southgate to receive the honour.
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Conservative John Ennis, who represents Harrogate Stray, said it was a “marvellous idea”, adding:
“Gareth Southgate has been a dignified figure the whole country has got behind.
“It is great that he lives in the area as well, he is a true credit to the town.”
Liberal Democrat Christine Willoughby, who represents Knaresborough Eastfield, said:
“I think if Gareth Southgate is eligible for the award then he certainly deserves the recognition.
“We could also celebrate any local Olympic sports stars and also the cyclist Mark Cavendish.”
‘He lives in my ward’
Victoria Oldham, the Conservative councillor for Washburn, said:
“While I am not entirely sure what the requirements are, I would certainly support giving Gareth Southgate the freedom of the borough.
“The fact that he lives in my ward makes it even better. His team’s performance has really put a smile on our faces.”
Liberal Democrat councillor Trevor Chapman, who represents Harrogate Bilton Grange and is currently the district’s mayor, said:
“Being a football fan myself I am very much aware of Gareth’s efforts and of course he is a resident of the district.
“From a personal perspective I think it would be great if we could give him some recognition locally.”
Cllr Stuart Martin, the Conservative representative for Ripon Moorside and former mayor, said:
“I think Gareth Southgate deserves all the accolades he can get. He seems to get all the players to perform at their best.
“It is always really nice when people from the Harrogate district do well and lead the way.”
Cllr Paul Haslam, the Conservative representative for Harrogate Old Bilton, said:
“I would be very happy to support it. He could even put his sheep on the Stray if that’s what it entitles him to!”
England beat Denmark 2-1 last night to achieve a place in Sunday’s final of Euro 2020 against Italy.
