Bexley macebearer and chauffeur given Freedom of the City of London

By Toby Porter

A pivotal figure behind the success of a borough’s many mayors for 36 years has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London for his support for charity and community projects.

Paul Holloway, pictured, started as macebearer and chauffeur for Bexley council’s mayoral team before any work had started on the Channel Tunnel.

He has built friendships with members of the borough’s groups and residents and is a prolific charity fundraiser in his spare time.

He was nominated for the award by two active Liverymen: Flt Lt Kris Cottier, the unit commander of 358 Welling Squadron Air Training Corps and RAF Air Cadets, and Robert Munson of the Rotary Club of Bexley.

Kris Cottier said: “Paul is one of those people who just make Bexley a better place to be. Quietly and efficiently going about his formal and charitable work, he always has a smile for those he meets. I wholeheartedly feel he is truly worthy of the accolade of a Freeman of the City of London.”

The Freedom of the City of London is a medieval tradition that awards the recipient the freedom to enter and leave the City at will, as a trusted friend of the City. The tradition is a celebration of the ancient right to drive sheep over London Bridge.

During the Covid pandemic, freedom ceremonies were held online, but Paul opted to wait until face-to-face ceremonies resumed, and he received his well-earned award in November 2021.

Numerous past Bexley mayors, council members, staff, service group members, friends and family gathered at Bexleyheath’s Twin Palace restaurant recently to celebrate with Mr Holloway.