Heroes to be offered Freedom of the Borough
As the country counts down to England’s World Cup semi-final, Dudley Council has added local football heroes Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers to its Freedom of the Borough honours list.
At a meeting of full council this evening (13 July), members approved plans to confer the borough's highest civic honour on Armed Forces Veterans – specifically armed forces personnel who have served on active duty and in conflicts.
Freedom will also be offered to Councillor Shaukat Ali, former Dudley College CEO Lowell Williams, Priory Park Boxing Club, and borough-born footballers Jude and Morgan, who are currently representing England in the World Cup.
In addition, the council will confer the title of Honorary Alderman upon former Councillor Michael Evans, in recognition of his long and distinguished service to local government.
Freedom of the Borough has previously been granted to notable figures including Sir Lenny Henry, Jordanne Whiley, B (SWWY) Squadron, The Royal Yeomanry and, more recently, Royal Navy veteran, the late Joe Bullock in recognition of his wartime service.
Councillor Patrick Harley, Leader of Dudley Council, said:
"The Freedom of the Borough is the highest honour we can bestow, and it is reserved for those whose service, achievements and dedication have made an exceptional contribution to our borough and its people.
"This year's recipients represent the very best of Dudley. From our armed forces veterans, who have shown extraordinary courage and sacrifice in service to our country, to community champions, sporting role models and dedicated public servants, each has made a lasting impact and brought great pride to our borough.
"Whether through serving their country, inspiring the next generation, supporting their communities or dedicating decades to public service, these individuals and organisations have helped shape Dudley's story. It is only right that we recognise their achievements and celebrate the difference they have made to the lives of others.
"On behalf of the council and the people of Dudley borough, I offer my heartfelt congratulations to all those being honoured."
Formal presentations of the Freedom of the Borough and Honorary Alderman awards will take place at a civic ceremony later this year.
Notes to editors
The award to Armed Forces Veterans recognises the courage, sacrifice and commitment of members of the armed forces who have served their country on active duty and in conflicts around the world. Dudley Council has long maintained a close relationship with the armed forces community and regularly celebrates the contribution of serving personnel, veterans and their families.
Councillor Shaukat Ali is being recognised for nearly three decades of dedicated public service. First elected in 1999, Councillor Ali has represented the people of St Thomas's for 27 years. Throughout his time on the council he has played a leading role in local government, serving as Deputy Leader of the Council, Deputy Leader of the Main Opposition Group and, currently, Leader of the Labour Group. His commitment to representing residents and shaping the future of the borough has earned respect across the political spectrum.
Lowell Williams is being recognised for his outstanding contribution to the borough, particularly through his leadership as former Chief Executive of Dudley College. Throughout his career, he played a pivotal role in expanding educational opportunities, raising aspirations and helping thousands of young people develop the skills and confidence needed to achieve their potential. His dedication to education and lifelong learning has left a lasting legacy on the borough and continues to inspire pride across Dudley's communities.
Priory Park Boxing Club is receiving Freedom of the Borough in recognition of its longstanding contribution to sport, community development and opportunities for young people. What started as a boxing club on Priory Road has grown into a community hub supporting 300–400 people every week, offering training, mentorship, and opportunities for young people, veterans, emergency services and local families. The club also runs Priory Park Community School, an alternative provision for young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) difficulties, or those at risk of permanent exclusion from mainstream education
Borough-born football stars Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers are being offered the Freedom in recognition of their exceptional sporting achievements and for serving as inspirational role models for young people across the borough.
Having progressed from local roots to the highest levels of professional football, playing for England in this year’s World Cup, both players have helped raise the profile of Dudley on the national and international stage. Their success, dedication and professionalism continue to inspire aspiring athletes throughout the borough and beyond. Recent calls for Freedom of the Borough for Jude Bellingham highlighted the pride his achievements have brought to Dudley communities.
Former Councillor Michael Evans has been awarded the title of Honorary Alderman in recognition of 24 years of dedicated service to Dudley Council and its residents. Representing Sedgley between 2000 and 2024, Mr Evans served as Deputy Mayor in 2010/11 and Mayor in 2011/12. During his time on the council he also held key cabinet responsibilities, including Performance Management and Quality Assurance within Children's Services, and Housing and Communities. His commitment to public service and the people of Sedgley has left a lasting legacy and made a significant contribution to the borough.