Rio Heroes granted Borough Freedom

Cheshire East's Olympic heroes have been honoured with freedom of the borough status at a special meeting of Cheshire East Council

Also honoured was Sir Philip Craven, now living in Cheshire East, who is president of the International Paralympic Committee and who has played a major role in the huge success story of Team GB's Paralympians.

Track cyclists Laura and Jason Kenny were two of the seven athletes and Paralympians honoured. Jason is now joint holder of the highest number of Olympic gold medals for a British athlete.

Libby Clegg, Megan Giglia, Bryony Page, Andy Small and Sophie Thornhill were all honoured by the mayor of the borough at a special ceremony at Crewe Lifestyle Centre.

The mayor, Councillor Olivia Hunter, said: "I am absolutely delighted that my term in office has coincided with the Olympic and Paralympic Games and equally delighted that athletes with a link to Cheshire East did so remarkably well in those games, mirroring the tremendous achievements of Team GB.

"The members, officers and citizens of the borough are truly proud of the achievements of those being honoured."

Libby Clegg, Laura and Jason Kelly were unable to attend the ceremony, which saw certificates and medals presented to the Rio champions.

Deputy leader Cllr David Brown praised Sir Philip's dedication to sport and his own personal achievements as a wheelchair basketball player, winning gold medals in various top-level events, including the Commonwealth Games.

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