September 26 2012.


Seaford Town Council wishes to recognise the efforts of members of the community who demonstrate outstanding commitment to the well-being of Seaford. The Council will do this, in special circumstances that meet the criteria of the Honorary Freedom of the Town policy, by awarding to an individual the title of Honorary Freeman (or Freewoman) of Seaford. This honour will be awarded only on rare and exceptional occasions. At any one time, a maximum of twelve persons, unless otherwise decided by the Council, may hold the title Honorary Freeman (or Freewoman) of Seaford.

Any person nominated may designate himself/herself Honorary Freeman (or Freewoman) of Seaford for life.
The award may be made at any time as the Council see fit. A scroll will be presented to the recipient.

The first Honorary Freedom of the Town awards were decided by the Town Council in May 2012 and will be officially conferred on Sunday September 30 2012 to Laurie Holland and Don Mabey.

Laurie Holland has a long-standing history of service to the town of Seaford. Initially through his work in the Treasurer's Department culminating as Treasurer to Seaford Urban District Council and Assistant Treasurer to Lewes District Council before his retirement. He later served as a councillor on both Lewes District Council and Seaford Town Council. Laurie is also very well known for his voluntary work in the town. He is President of both Seaford Lifeguards and Seaford Museum & Heritage Society. He has for many years undertaken key roles with Seaford Baptist Church, Sussex Table Tennis Association and is a keen member of Seaford Stamp Club amongst other things. Laurie is often described as "Mr Seaford"

Don Mabey moved to Seaford in 1985 from Surrey. At 92 years of age he remains a keen fundraiser for RAFA Charities, having raised tens of thousands of pounds over the years. He is the President of the Seahaven RAFA, a position he has held for many years. Anyone with any association to military events will know Don. He is a founder member and Honorary President of the Royal Society of St George Seahaven Branch, another charitable organisation in which Don and others raise money to support local good causes. In his spare time Don still enjoys his golfing and is a regular player and President of Seaford Head Golf Club, as well as maintaining his membership at a course in Surrey.

The First Freedom of the Town Ceremony for Seaford Town Council will take place at St Leonard's Church, Seaford on Sunday 30 September at the invitation of the Mayor of Seaford, Councillor Linda Wallraven. Following the service a short parade will take place in Broad Street and High Street. Members of the public are invited to line the streets to witness the celebration of this historic event. A road closure will be in place for approximately one hour from 3.00pm. Following the parade, invited guests will join the new Freemen for a cream tea at Seaford Head Lower School.