Honorary Freedom of the Parish - A first in Rustington's History
At a Special Meeting of Rustington Parish Council on 1 July 2024, it was decided that, for the first time in its history, the Honorary Freedom of the Parish of Rustington should be awarded to a Parishioner.
The granting of the Freedom of the Parish is the highest honour that the Parish Council can bestow upon a valued member of the community. Although it carries no powers, rights or privileges, those who receive the honour are able to use the title of Freeman.
The Council agreed that the recipient of the Freedom of the Parish should be Graham Tyler, with the title of Honorary Freeman being conferred upon him, with immediate effect.
The Award has been made in recognition of the unceasing long-term dedication, commitment and eminent service that he has rendered to the Village of Rustington and its community, as a Parish Councillor for in excess of 28 years, an Arun District Councillor and West Sussex County Councillor for Rustington, as well as a Parishioner.
To formally acknowledge this prestigious Award, a personalised Freedom Scroll and Honorary Freeman Gilt Badge were presented to Graham by the Chairman of the Council, Councillor Jamie Bennett, ably assisted by the Vice-Chairman, Councillor Andy Cooper, at a private Reception on Saturday 5 October 2024, at the Samuel Wickens Centre in Rustington.