Freedom of Worplesdon Bestowed on Parish Stalwart Mary Broughton

Published on: 29 Apr, 2026
Updated on: 29 Apr, 2026

Worplesdon Parish Council has bestowed Mary Broughton with the honour of Freeman of Worplesdon.

It being the highest honour the parish can bestow.

Mary Broughton receives her Freedom of Worplesdon honour and certificate from the chairman of Worplesdon Parish Council, Nigel Mitchell. Photos by Geoff Burch.

The parish council says Mary gives a strong and continuing commitment to Worplesdon – by being a major contributor to parish life with her time, energy and enthusiasm.

This has been through decades of exceptional and sustained service to the Sime Gallery at Worplesdon Memorial Hall.

Following the gallery obtaining charity status in 2020, Mary was its inaugural chairperson.

She has secured for the gallery, that contains artwork by artist Sidney Sime, substantial grant funding from the National Lottery Heritage fund.

This, in addition to be a leading light celebrating Sime (who lived at Perry Hill, Worplesdon in his later life), and helping to safeguard a unique collection of his artwork.

Pictured from left: Worplesdon Parish Council clerk Gaynor White, its chairman Nigel Mitchell, Mary Broughton and her husband Richard.

The honour also recognises her unwavering and continuing commitment to Worplesdon’s parish churches, Worplesdon Tennis Club and Worplesdon Memorial Hall.

Not forgetting supporting parish events in a variety of ways, often volunteering herself and fund raising throughout her 40 years in Worplesdon.

A celebration was held at Worplesdon Parish Council’s offices where its chairman, Nigel Mitchell, presented Mary with the Honorary Freedom.

Mary unveils the plaque that honours Freemen of Worplesdon with her name now added to previous recipients Sandra Morgan and John Gunner.

Worplesdon’s parish clerk Gaynor White and her deputy Victoria Fear prepared a buffet for invited guests, councillors and members of Mary’s family.

Mary encourages everyone to volunteer in some way and thanks all those she has volunteered with, past and present, and reminds people how important volunteering is.

Mary is only the third recipient of the honour. The others being Sandra Morgan and John Gunner.