Beccles Freedom of the Town

Recently produced for Beccles Town Council, this honours board records recipients of the freedom of the town.
As you can see from the honours board shown here, the granting of honorary freedom of the town is a rare event, in this case only three times in fifty seven years.

Origins of granting Honorary Freedom of the Town.

The granting of the "Freedom of the Town" in the United Kingdom originates from medieval times when towns were granted charters of incorporation. These charters allowed certain citizens, often merchants or guild members, to enjoy privileges such as trading rights or exemption from tolls. Being a "freeman" signified an elevated status within the community, often tied to property ownership or trade.

In the 21st century, the tradition continues as an honorary gesture. It is typically awarded to individuals or organisations in recognition of exceptional service or achievement. Recipients can be as diverse as prominent citizens, military units, or community organizations. Although the ceremony is largely symbolic it is often marked by a formal council event. Occasionally, honorary freemen are granted ceremonial privileges, such as participating in parades or, traditionally, the right to herd sheep through the town. The practice highlights civic pride and often celebrates contributions made by members of the local community.

You'll find the website of Beccles Town Council here:Town Council

Beccles is a town in Suffolk, not far south east from Norwich, it's been around for a long time and is recorded in the Domesday Book, in those days it was spelt with just one letter 'C' in Becles.
Freedom of Beccles town awarded to local citizens.

Timber Colour Samples

If you order an honours board from us you will receive a range of colour samples so that you can accurately assess the final colour of your finished board. Looking at wood colours on screen or in print can only give you an indication of the finished colour.

Other Colour Considerations

If you choose to use glass or Perspex for your honours board, shown elsewhere on this website, you will need to consider the colour of the wall behind it; the colour needs to contrast with the colour of lettering so that it's easy to read.

Reproduction & Restoration

We have become quite expert over the years in repairing and restoring honour boards but sometimes the time/cost involved is so great that it's better to start again and create a reproduction of an original honours board.

Freedom of the Town or City honour boards made to any size, shape, colour or style for town and city councils.