At a ceremony held today at London’s famous Guildhall, Yorkshire businessman Sir Rodney Walker was installed as a Freeman of the City of London by Special nomination for services to sport in the UK.
In his letter of invitation from the Clerk to the Chamberlains Court sent on behalf of Sir David Wootton, chair of the freedoms Application Committee and the City of London Corporation reference was made as follows: -
“The Corporation wish to mark your lifelong achievements in sports administration and charitable and cultural activities particularly in your home county of Yorkshire”
Separately, reference has also been made to his role in bring about the new Wembley Stadium and his work as chair of London Marathon Charitable Trust who own London Marathon events, who for 40 years have organised the London Marathon raising more than £90 million for mainly London based good causes.
Sir Rodney, who has been married to wife Anne for 47 years, and has two sons, has received many honours for his work over the years. In 2006 he was Knighted by Her Majesty the Queen, awarded the Freedom of the City of Wakefield in 2012 for services to the city, sport, business and for leading campaigns which have raised an estimated £40 million for a variety of charities and good causes. Additionally, he has received Hon Doctorates from the University of Bradford and the University of Huddersfield, was admitted as a Knight into the Order of St. Lazarus of Jerusalem for his services to health and awarded Yorkshireman of the Year in 2008.
