Burnham couple awarded Honorary Freedom of the Parish

Muriel Pepler and Councillor David Pepler were named the first Honorary Freewoman and Honorary Freeman of the village, respectively.

The award was agreed upon by the council in late July and presented on November 9.

Honorary Freewoman Muriel Pepler, and Honorary Freeman David Pepler, with their family after accepting their awards (Image: Burnham Parish Council)

The ceremony was kept a secret until the day and coincided with a visit from representatives of Burnham's twin town, Saint-Denis-de-l'Hôtel.

The Peplers were recognised for their significant contributions to the village, particularly through Burnham's Twinning Association.

Chair of the council, Councillor Marie Hammon, said: "There has been a history of long service by the Pepler family, and David has been on our council, apart from a short break, for 50 years.

"His devotion to public service is second to none."

Cllr Marie Hammon, Chair of Burnham Parish Council, presents Muriel Pepler and Cllr David Pepler with a cake that she baked to commemorate the occasion. (Image: Burnham Parish Council)

"Muriel has quietly given a lot of her time to many local causes and charities.

"One of her greatest achievements has been in setting up the Burnham Village Twinning Association in 2013."

Burnham Parish Clerk Adam Killeya said: "The Honorary Freedom of the Parish is the highest award that the Parish can bestow, and a recognition of truly exceptional service."

The Peplers were presented with ceremonial scrolls and an honorary freedom badge.

The ceremony concluded with the singing of the British and French national anthems, celebrating the friendship between Burnham and Saint-Denis-de-l'Hôtel.