DROITWICH Paralympic swimmer Rebecca Redfern MBE has been bestowed the title of Honorary Freeman of the town in recognition of her ‘remarkable’ sporting achievements.
Redfern, a Droitwich native, secured her first gold medal in the women’s 100m breastroke SB13 event at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
Prior to her gold medal success, she made a splash on the world stage at the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games at the age of just 16 by winning a silver medal – one year after joining Worcester Swimming Club.
The Paralympian also won a second Paralympic silver medal at Tokyo 2020. Alongside her Paralympic success, she has extensive medal tallies nationally and internationally in British, European and World Championships to boot.
Council representatives bestowed her honour at a ceremony last Monday (February 17) at St Richards House, Droitwich Spa. Droitwich Spa Town Council can bestow these honorary titles in recognition of distinguished contribution to civic life. The rewards are given for exceptional service.
The newly bestowed honorary freeman said: “I’m always so thankful for the people that have gotten me to all these places and I couldn’t do it without this town.
“It’s one thing, representing your country and knowing that you’re doing it with the flag, but actually representing your town as well is just the most amazing thing I can do for them.”
Councillor Bob Brookes, who seconded the motion proposed by council chairman George Duffy referred to Rebecca’s achievements as ‘truly remarkable’.
He added: “As a Paralympic swimmer, she has represented our country with immense dedication, winning medals on the world stage and demonstrating extraordinary resilience, skill, and determination.
“Her success has brought pride not only to her sport but also to our town.”
The athlete was also praised for efforts beyond her sporting accomplishments. The swimmer has ‘equally commendable’ involvement in supporting others through her role as patron of Sight Concern Worcester.
The charity, along with Rebecca, advocate, support and empower people with visual impairments across the county.
Rebecca’s brother and fellow Team GB Paralympic athlete, Matthew, was also recognised at the event, by the High Sheriff of Worcestershire, Charles Moyle.
