Agenda item

To consider the report of Councillor Steve Morgan which recommends that Mr Robin Morris, be admitted as an Honorary Freeman of the City of Gloucester.

85.1      Councillor Morgan moved and Councillor Pullen seconded the following motion:

That pursuant to Section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972, Mr Robin Morris be admitted as an Honorary Freeman of the City of Gloucester in recognition of his significant contribution to the character and life of the City through his many years of active involvement in the protection and preservation of Gloucester’s unique heritage.

85.2     Councillor Morgan praised the outstanding contribution Mr Morris had made to the City over a period of fifty years noting that he had been a founding member of Gloucester Civic Trust as well as its Chair for forty years. Councillor Morgan also pointed to Mr. Morris’ position as Senior Officer of the Order of St. John and his receiving of the award of MBE as further testament to his qualifications for receiving the award of Honorary Freeman. On behalf of the people of Gloucester, Councillor Morgan thanked Mr Morris for his significant contribution to the character and life of the City of Gloucester.

85.3     In seconding the motion, Councillor Pullen recounted the port status of Gloucester being bestowed upon it in 1580 and that Mr. Morris had organised the 400^th anniversary of this event through the Gloucester Civic Trust which had been an integral part of regenerating the Docks area of the City. Councillor Pullen paid tribute to his work over many years in his many and varied roles.

85.4     Councillor Hilton spoke in favour of the motion and stated that it was a thoroughly deserved award. He stated his belief that the Westgate area of the City would have been different today were it not for Mr. Morris’ endeavours in terms of, not only his work to regenerate the area but to also preserve its historic nature.

85.5     Mr. Morris addressed Council expressing his gratitude for receiving the honour of the award. He thanked Members for their kind words and implored all to continue to preserve Gloucester’s heritage.

85.6     RESOLVED that:-  pursuant to Section 249 of the Local Government Act 1972, Mr Robin Morris be admitted as an Honorary Freeman of the City of Gloucester in recognition of his significant contribution to the character and life of the City through his many years of active involvement in the protection and preservation of Gloucester’s unique heritage.