The Mayor of Woodbridge, Councillor David Mortimer said: “Vacancies to become an Honorary Freeman of Woodbridge are few and far between and are eagerly contested. It is a testament to the work that Mrs Wallace does that she has been elected to this very small and elite band.”
Woodbridge’s 12 Honorary Freemen must live within three miles of the town and have made a significant contribution to the life of the town.
Jean said: “I feel really honoured to have been elected as an Honorary Freeman of Woodbridge, especially when you realise how much the other nominees have done for the town.”
Jean was nominated by her parish priest, Fr Edmund Eggleston, in recognition of her voluntary work in the town over the last 26 years. Fr Edmund said: “Jean’s contribution to the life and mission of the Catholic Church in Woodbridge was recognised some years ago by Bishop Alan’s award to her of the East Anglia Diocesan Medal.
“Additionally, Jean gives a significant amount of her time each week to volunteer at the New Horizons Lunch Club for the elderly which meets in Woodbridge, to Churches Together in Woodbridge & Melton, and to Woodbridge Town Museum. Jean is also a keen supporter of MISSIO and SPUC.
“I am delighted that this award has been made to Jean in recognition of all the work that she has done, and continues to do, for the town.”
Pictured above, Jean Wallace receives her award as an Honorary Freeman from Woodbridge Mayor Cllr David Mortimer.