FOR THE first time ever, Tidworth Town Council bestowed the Freedom of the Town on a former councillor who has served the community for more than 30 years.

Mark Connolly was recently recognised at a special ceremony for his outstanding contributions made while representing both Tidworth Town Council and Wiltshire Council.

In a statement, the town council said: “Mark truly deserved this honour; the list is endless of his involvement in helping shape Tidworth to a town we can be proud of.

“We were privileged to have the Vice Lord-Lieutenant Sir Andrew Gregory come along to present the Freedom Scroll.

“Having served himself in Tidworth for periods of time from 1993 he personally was aware of the improvements in Tidworth over the years.”

Mark is the first person to be bestowed the Freedom of the Town.

Dozens of residents flooded social media to celebrate Mark’s achievement.

Andrea Spreadbury said: “Very well-deserved. Lovely man congratulations”, while Roj Gurung added: “Richly deserved, acknowledging your long and sterling commitment to Tidworth council.”

Shaun Spanswick called the award “absolutely brilliant” and “truly deserved”, and Julie Winch commented that Mark had “done Tidworth proud”.