Freedom of Hurst Green

In the spring of 2020, the Chairman of the Parish Council, Graham Browne received an urgent telephone call. Local resident, Talena Sharp suggested that the Parish Council join her to establish a local Covid-19 support group. The Council didn’t hesitate, and soon the Hurst Green Covid-19 Support Group was up and running.

Helping those affected, particularly during the lockdown and restrictions, the group grew in size to over 60 volunteers. Led by Mrs Sharp, and supported by local resident, Christy Cole, the group set up a food bank, did the shopping, and ran errands for those in isolation. Members of the group worked alongside government and other local agencies, doing anything they could think of, from being a listening ear for residents, to helping those who felt anxious.

Recognising her outstanding contribution to the community, in April 2022, the Parish Council awarded the highest honour that it can bestow (the freedom of the parish of Hurst Green) to Mrs Sharp. Those who receive the honour are able to use the title of Freeman or Freewoman.

Watched by members of the public and her family, Mrs Sharp was formally thanked and was presented by the Chairman of the Council with a parchment scroll. Mrs Sharp said “It is an honour and privilege to be the first person to receive the freedom of this lovely parish. I accepted on behalf of all those who participated in the group. Thank you also to all who organised such a lovely presentation evening, especially Wendy Browne and Sue Endean for all their hard work.”

“The Parish Council awarded the highest honour it can bestow to Mrs Sharp”

Attendees witnessed the unveiling of a new wooden honours board, which now hangs in the village’s hall. Commenting at the event, Parish Councillor Andrew Brown said, “This evening celebrates the outstanding contribution of a local resident, and it also symbolises what we can do as a community during the most difficult of times.”

While there is no statutory guidance that sets out any criteria for the appointment of Freemen and Freewomen, the Parish Council’s policy states that ‘as the Freedom of the Parish is awarded in recognition of exceptional service to the Parish, persons should be of distinction, and who have, in the opinion of the Council, rendered eminent service to the parish of Hurst Green’.