Amir Khan a big hit at Freedom of Borough ceremony

Boxing champ Amir Khan made a knockout appearance when three of Bury’s finest were given the Freedom of the Borough.

Amir was a special guest of Mick Jelley, who was one of his earliest trainers and stalwart of Bury Amateur Boxing Club.

Mick was joined by Lieutenant Colonel Eric Davidson and community champion Yvonne Moore in receiving the award at a special meeting of the full council on Wednesday 24 June.

Honorary Freedom is the highest civic honour that can be bestowed by the council. Among those who have been awarded the honour in recent years are the Oscar-winning film director Danny Boyle and the rock group Elbow.

Lt Col Davidson, MBE, DL received the award for his outstanding work on behalf of local charities, including the organisation of the annual Poppy Appeal; and in recognition of his role, as a Member of the Board of Directors, in assisting with the concept, development and successful management of the National Museum of The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers; and in organising and managing the annual Gallipoli and Remembrance Sunday Ceremonies, where he performs the key role of Parade Marshal.

Mick Jelley’s award was in recognitionof his long and outstanding association with Bury Amateur Boxing Club and the positive impact this has had on the lives of young people who have passed through its ranks; and for his outstanding work undertaken with the Police and Probation services, as well as other agencies and individuals concerned with the welfare of young people, in providing support and mentoring.

Yvonne Moore BEM was granted Freedom for her tireless work on behalf of Bury residents including the establishment of a Home Watch Scheme; the founding of the Old Hall Park Residents Association; chairing the Bury Metropolitan Community Twinning Association and promoting positive relations between Bury and its twin towns; and in recognition of her continuing support and fund raising efforts on behalf of local charities.

Councillor Mike Connolly, leader of the council, said: “We’re very lucky to have such high calibre people in Bury, people who have a long record of outstanding work in the community and who have made a big difference to people’s lives. It is a pleasure to be able to show our thanks by awarding them Freedom of the Borough.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 25 June 2015.

Pictured: The three honoured with Freedom of the Borough of Bury – Yvonne Moore, Mick Jelley and Lt Col Eric Davidson, with (back, left) council leader Cllr Mike Connolly.