The Freedom of the Borough has been conferred on the Lord Lieutenant for County Londonderry, Sir Denis Desmond KCVO CBE.
He received the honour from Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council in recognition of his dedicated and outstanding service as the Sovereign’s personal representative since 2000.
The event took place at Council’s civic headquarters in Coleraine on Friday 27th April.
Speaking afterwards, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Joan Baird OBE said: “Sir Denis Desmond KCVO CBE has served the Causeway Coast and Glens, and in particular County Londonderry, with great distinction and his generous public service is an example to us all. Earlier this year, Sir Denis was given the title of Knight Commander of the Victorian Order in HM The Queen’s New Year Honours List. Council is delighted to follow this by making Sir Denis a Freeman of Borough. This is Council’s highest civic honour and I would like to offer my sincere congratulations at this time.”
In 2016, Sir Denis hosted HM The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh during their visit to the Borough which included the official opening of Bellarena Train Station. During the visit, the Royal couple enjoyed a journey on the Royal Steam Train which showcased some of the area’s most stunning scenery, passing landmarks including Downhill Strand, Mussenden Temple and Benone. Widely regarded as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, it was a hugely memorable day for the area.
Sir Denis Desmond KCVO CBE was educated at Trinity College, Glenalmond, Perthshire before joining the family business Desmond & Sons Limited in Londonderry, well-known clothing manufacturers. He held the position of company Chairman from 1970-2005.
