TWO worthy recipients have been named as Honorary Freemen of Oswestry.

At a special meeting last week, Oswestry Town Council announced its latest freemen appointments as Betty Gull and Bill Bowen.

Both were appointed in recognition for their significant contribution to Oswestry and for demonstrating ‘service before self’.

Individuals from all walks of life who have made a difference in their community, were able to be nominated for the title, which mayor Councillor John Price said was the ‘highest honour’.

“It was a difficult decision for the council,” he said.

“Being freeman of your town is the highest honour that can be bestowed.

“Both individuals have made a significant, lifelong contribution to the community in a voluntary capacity.”

Betty Gull, who is the chairman of Oswestry In Bloom was delighted and overwhelmed to have been nominated for the title.

“When I received the letter I was gobsmacked and truly amazed,” said Betty who served as a town councillor for nearly 40 years and was mayor three times.

“In all honesty I was shocked that people would remember me now because it’s only really In Bloom that I’m still part of.

“Once I got over the initial shock I was delighted and touched that people should think of me.”

And Bill Bowen BEM was equally delighted to be named an Honorary Freeman.

“I was quite thrilled to see I’d been chosen,” said Mr Bowen, who has dedicated his time to helping others through his time at Oswestry Lions Club, being a volunteer chaplain at Gobowen’s Orthopaedic Hospital and at St Oswald’s Parish Church.

“It’s not a common thing to be given, so it’s a lovely honour.

“I very much appreciate being told I’m worthy of it.”

The honour has been awarded to Miss Gull and Mr Bowen for their lifetime and they may now use the title ‘Honorary Freeman of the Town of Oswestry’.

They will also be awarded a civic token in the form of a medallion and certificate to commemorate receiving their awards; invited to all subsequent civic events and functions, and, invited to be present at the annual Mayor Making event and the Civic Dinner.