Freedom of the Borough Awarded to Olympic Champion Hannah Scott MBE

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has awarded Freedom of the Borough to Coleraine’s Olympic gold medallist, Hannah Scott MBE, at a special civic ceremony held today (Saturday, 18 April) in Coleraine Town Hall.

The Freedom of the Borough is the highest civic honour that Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council can bestow.

It was conferred in recognition of Hannah’s remarkable sporting achievements, including her historic Olympic gold medal in the Women’s Quadruple Sculls as part of Team GB at the 2024 Summer Olympics.

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Oliver McMullan said: “It is a proud and historic occasion for Causeway Coast and Glens to award the Freedom of the Borough to Hannah Scott MBE here in Coleraine today. Hannah’s Olympic gold medal achievement has brought immense pride to her hometown and the wider Causeway Coast and Glens.

“As a role model, Hannah continues to inspire young people across our area, showing what can be achieved through hard work, resilience and commitment. This is the highest honour we can bestow, and it is thoroughly deserved.

"On behalf of the Council, I offer my sincere congratulations to Hannah and wish her continued success in the future.”

Speaking about receiving the honour, Hannah Scott MBE said: “Receiving the Freedom of the Borough of Causeway Coast and Glens is an honour that truly means so much to me. To be recognised by the place that shaped me—my home, my community—is incredibly special, and something I will carry with great pride.

“Growing up in Coleraine gave me the foundations not only for rowing, but for life. I’ve always felt the support of this community behind me, and I’m so proud to represent a place that celebrates its people so wholeheartedly. Through every race and every challenge, that support has never been far away.”

The ceremony was attended by a distinguished audience, including Northern Ireland’s only other Olympic gold medallist Lady Mary Peters, the Lord Lieutenant for County Londonderry, Mrs Alison Millar, and the High Sheriff, Mr Peter Jack MBE, alongside elected members, family, friends, and invited guests.

Congratulating Hannah, Lady Mary Peters commented: “I’m thrilled for Hannah and she is thoroughly deserving of this honour in her hometown and Borough.

“As a Mary Peters Trust supported athlete, myself and the Trust have watched Hannah’s progress over the years, and her Paris Gold Medal achievement was simply wonderful.

“I was honoured to be in Coleraine for her post Olympics Homecoming, and everyone was just so proud. Hannah is also one of the Trust’s International Award winners and is a great ambassador for Northern Ireland. We wish her every success for the future.”