One of Preston’s most well-known charity benefactors is to be awarded the Freedom of the City.
AdvertisementLady Milena Grenfell-Baines, whose husband designed Preston Bus Station, is to be bestowed with the honour at a special meeting of the city council.
Councillor John Browne will propose Lady Grenfell- Baines receives the honour “in recognition of her contribution to the local community and citizens of the City of Preston over many years.”
It is due to be supported by Conservative leader Eric Fazackerley and Liberal Democrat leader Pauline Browne.
Mayor of Preston councillor Nick Pomfret said: “Lady Grenfell-Baines has been a wonderful ambassador for Preston. With her natural charm and enthusiasm, she has been an inspiration to many.
“From first coming to England as a child refugee from Czechoslovakia just prior to the Second World War, Milena has shown remarkable spirit and energy to all the different aspects of her life.
“I am delighted to preside over this ceremony and welcome Lady Grenfell-Baines to the group of leading Prestonians on this list of Honorary Freemen and Freewomen of the City of Preston.”
Lady Grenfell-Baines was born in Czechoslovakia in 1929.
She will join the likes of animator Nick Park, cricketer Andrew Flintoff and former Preston Conservative leader and city council leader Ken Hudson on the list of those with Freedom of the City.
The ceremony takes place from 11.15am on Thursday 5 February at the Town Hall and the public are welcome to attend and observe.
Watch Lady Grenfell-Baines speak at the Jolocaust Memorial Day in February 2014. If you’re on our app, click here to watch.
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