Sandown Town Council is proud to announce that Heather Humby MBE has been awarded the prestigious Freedom of Sandown, Isle of Wight, the highest civic honour the town can bestow. The accolade was awarded in recognition of her extraordinary lifetime of service to the town and community and her enduring commitment to the people of Sandown and the wider Isle of Wight.
At 90 years old, she remains a beloved figure whose dedication has shaped Sandown for more than five decades including a remarkable 54 years of public service across county, district, and town councils.
Mayor Cllr Alex Lightfoot presented Heather with a beautifully framed Freedom Scroll, the work of St Cecilia’s Abbey in Ryde at a special ceremony held at the Broadway Centre. The event was attended by Deputy Lord Lieutenant Richard Priest, former mayors, colleagues, community members and Heathers family and friends.
Heather who helped create the Town Council and was Sandown’s first-ever mayor in 1983, thanked the residents of Sandown:
“I thank the residents of Sandown for allowing me to represent you. This award is a huge privilege. Ancient law says I can now drive a flock of sheep down the High Street — but sadly, I couldn’t find a farmer who’d trust me with his flock!”
Mayor Alex Lightfoot added “Heather has dedicated much of her life to public service across a number of roles and it is my absolute honour to award her with the Freedom of Sandown in recognition of all that she has done for the town.”
ENDS