A call has been made for US Open Champion Emma Raducanu to be given the Freedom of the London Borough of Bromley, where she lives.
On Saturday 11th September, Emma became the first ever qualifier to win a Grand Slam final and the first British woman to win a major singles title since 1977.
Now Labour Councillors in the borough have requested a special meeting of the south-east London council to grant her the honour, in recognition of her outstanding achievement.
The Freedom of the Borough is seen as the highest honour that a council can bestow on one of its residents.
Speaking for the Labour Group, Cllr Kevin Brooks said:
“Emma’s achievements in the US Open are simply incredible and she is obviously a sportswoman of amazing skill and determination. She is much more than that though – her attitude, her mental strength and her personality make her exceptional.
“She has brought so much pleasure and excitement to residents in Bromley and beyond, and coming on the back of the pandemic, it is pure joy to watch and head from her; she will be a role model and ray of hope for so many of our young people.
“Freedom of the Borough is a ceremonial tribute, but it is the best way for this Council to show her our appreciation of all that she is, has done and will go on to do.
“When I proposed a motion of support and congratulations in council a few weeks ago, it was beyond our wildest dreams that she would win the Open.
“That motion received unanimous support from all councillors, and I sincerely hope that the same is shown in granting this formal recognition as I am sure that this is what our residents would want and expect”
Notes to editors
1. A special meeting of the council can be called by five members; all eight labour members have requested this meeting be held. The council are now arranging a date for the meeting to be held.
2. At full council on 12th July, Cllr Brooks proposed a motion congratulating Emma and Bromley Tennis Club and called for a letter of congratulations from the Mayor to be sent to Emma along with a copy of the resolution agreed by the council.
3. For further information, please contact Cllr Angela Wilkins, Leader of the Labour Group on 0794 052 8107
