27 October 2022
We’re very proud that London TravelWatch vice-chair, Alan Benson MBE, has been made Freeman of Richmond Borough.
Leader of the Council, Gareth Roberts, proposed the motion that Alan be admitted at a Special Council meeting at York House, Twickenham.
Cllr Roberts said: “Alan and the teams he works with have achieved many things for accessible transport across the city – in particular, ensuring the new Elizabeth Line was fully accessible from its first day.
“We have unanimously voted to make him an Honorary Freeman of the Borough in recognition of his achievements as an exemplary campaigner, activist, trustee and innovator and as a resident of the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.
“In particular, we recognise and thank him for his dedication and contribution for over a decade as an inspirational advocate for the rights of disabled and older people, and especially their right to travel freely and independently in Greater London.”
Green Party leader Cllr Richard Bennett, who seconded the motion, said: “You just have to look at the roster of his achievements to see how generous he is with his time, energy and expertise.
“We are incredibly grateful that he plays such an active role in championing disabled and older people in this borough and in supporting our extraordinary voluntary sector through his work with Ruils.
“The impact of his work is felt across our whole city and beyond, and we are proud he calls this borough home.”
The borough’s Disability Champion, Cllr Rob O’Carroll, added his praise, saying: “Alan is the person we should strive to be – an advocate for the betterment of all.
“A constant and tireless campaigner within the borough and across London.”
Alan Benson MBE – and now Freeman of Richmond Borough, said -: “My advocacy is rooted in the belief that breaking down the barriers faced by disabled and older people makes the world a better, more inclusive place for everyone.
“I’m grateful for the support I’ve had in the Borough from individuals, organisations like Ruils, businesses and the Council, itself which only serves to reaffirm that belief.”
The Award was presented by the Mayor of Richmond upon Thames, Councillor Julia Cambridge.
Credit to Teddington Nub News for content and photo: https://teddington.nub.news/news/local-news/joining-the-boroughs-greats-richmonds-highest-honour-awarded-to-alan-benson-155848
