‘Humbled and honoured’: Community champions awarded Freedom of the City

By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor

Two of Hull’s most recognisable figures have spoken of their immense pride after being bestowed with the Freedom of the City.

Former boxer-turned businessman Tommy Coyle and Hull KR owner and solicitor Neil Hudgell have been given the highly prestigious honour.

Tommy represented Hull in 30 professional fights – winning 25 of them – with his sporting career highlights including winning the Commonwealth lightweight title and boxing at the iconic Madison Square Garden.

He has since gone on to become a successful businessman with his company, Coyle Health and Wellbeing, and is well known for his many community initiatives, including handing out free school uniforms to struggling families.

As the owner of Hull KR, Neil is leading the club through one of the most successful periods in its history, including its recent Challenge Cup success.

He is also executive chairman of Hudgell Solicitors, where he has represented victims of the Post Office scandal in their fight for justice.

Tommy was nominated by Labour Councillor Shane McMurray and Neil was put forward by the leader of Hull Labour Group, Councillor Daren Hale.

After the nominations were agreed by Hull City Council’s civic committee, the full council approved the awards. Both men will attend an official ceremony at a later date.

Referencing his late father, Tommy said: “I feel a profound sense of pride for myself and my family. I can’t help but think of my father and imagine calling him to say, ‘You’ll never guess what!’ I suspect he would have thought I was joking too.

“Regardless of this recognition, I want to reaffirm my commitment to always do my utmost for the wonderful people of this city, to whom I will forever feel indebted.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Councillor Shane McMurray, Councillor Daren Hale, MP Karl Turner and all the Labour and Lib Dem representatives who supported my nomination at the full council meeting.

“Finally, congratulations to my friend, Neil Hudgell.”

Neil said: “I am humbled by this honour. It’s certainly something I never expected, so I want to thank all who have contributed to making this happen.

“As an east Hull lad, I could not be prouder of my roots. The city has shaped who I am and everything I do, from family to business, sport and in the community, so to be recognised in this way by my home city is very, very special.

“Without doubt, it sits as one of the proudest achievements of my life.

“Congratulations to Tommy also – a very good friend, and a friend of the city – who has used his profile and position to do good and support others.

“I am thrilled for him to have this deserved recognition."

The Freedom of the City is an honorary award to recognise exceptional service or contribution to a city.

Councillor Cheryl Payne, chair of the civic committee, said: “Both Tommy and Neil have established very successful careers from the city of Hull, and are inspirations to others about what can be achieved here.

“They’ve both given back so much to the communities that made them, and the honorary Freedom of the City is a very fitting honour for them.”