Chichester City Council hosted its 39th Annual Awards and Freedom of the City Ceremony at the Festival Theatre today.
The free event welcomed residents and guests to celebrate the people and organisations who have made a significant contribution to the city. This year, the council granted the Freedom of the City to Jess Breach, one of England’s leading rugby players and a proud Chichester success story. Born in the city in 1997, Jess rose through the ranks to become one of England’s most prolific international players. She made a record-breaking debut in 2017 and went on to earn more than 50 caps and victories by 2025. Despite her international career, she has remained closely connected to Chichester, supporting the local rugby club and inspiring young players through coaching, fundraising and community work. The ceremony also celebrated the city’s heritage and community spirit with the unveiling of four new Blue Plaques. Three honoured influential women linked to Chichester’s history – poet and novelist Charlotte Turner Smith, activist Margery Wilkinson, and Queen Elizabeth the First, who visited the city in 1591. The fourth plaque recognised James Bennet Freeland, whose vision helped create Oaklands Park, now a well-used green space at the heart of the city. Get the latest BREAKING NEWS for the SOUTH on your phone by downloading the V2 RADIO APP today! V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK is offering half-price deals on a wide range of experiences across the South, from meals out at local restaurants to tickets for some of the region’s biggest events.
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