Latest Freeperson of Newtown could be chosen today

Town councillors will tonight consider whether to move forward with appointing a new Honorary Freeman or Freewoman of Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn.

Nominations for the civic honour are due to be discussed by members, with councillors deciding whether any names put forward meet the threshold set out in the council’s policy.

Under the Local Government Act 1972, the council can admit “persons of distinction or who have, in the opinion of the Council, rendered eminent service to Newtown & Llanllwchaiarn area to be a freeman or freewoman”  

The title is one of the highest honours the town council can give, but it carries no formal powers. The policy states: “There are no material honours, or special privileges, or rights associated with the honorary title… It is purely and simply a recognition of merit”  

There are strict rules around any appointment. “No more than twelve living freemen/freewomen can at any one time hold the honour”, and any decision must be taken at a specially convened meeting of the full council. 

Nominations can be made by any resident of Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn. They must be submitted in writing to the Town Clerk and explain “Why they are a person of distinction, and/or What eminent service they have rendered to our area”  

For living nominees, discussions are held in confidential session “where publicity would be prejudicial to the public interest."

If councillors agree that any of the current nominations should proceed, a special meeting will be called for a formal vote requiring a two thirds majority.

The title of Freeman or Freewoman has historic roots in towns across the UK, but in Newtown it remains a rare honour.