A TRURO councillor and former mayor has become the first woman to be awarded the title of Honorary Freeman of the City of Truro in recognition of her outstanding service to the city and its community.

Cllr Lorrie Eathorne-Gibbons has been an influential member of Truro City Council for over four decades. “I feel very humbled this has happened to me, but also very proud,” she said.

Lorrie, 84, was elected to Truro City Council in 1979, and has served on many committees but is especially passionate about parks and open spaces. One of her lasting legacies was the 2019 installation of the hedgehog sculptures on Trafalgar Roundabout; she has also played a leading role in Truro in Bloom, planted lime trees at the bus station, and was instrumental in establishing the Café in the Park.

“The highest point for me has been mixing with residents, visitors and volunteers, and watching things come to fruition,” she said. “The smallest things often have the most impact.”

As mayor in 1987 and 2015, Lorrie raised thousands of pounds for Arthritis UK and Emmaus UK. She also served on Cornwall Air Ambulance’s first steering committee, and is currently an ambassador for Macmillan Cancer Research and president of Truro Sea Cadets.

As Freeman, Lorrie has the right to drive a flock of sheep through Truro, if she had one. “It might not give you the right to change things in the world, but it’s the greatest honour a council can give,” she continued. “I’m surprised and delighted it has been given to me.”

The title was last conferred 15 years ago to current Truro mayor Cllr Chris Wells. “Lorrie has given so much of her time to Truro,” he said. “Her love for the city and its people shines through everything she does. This honour is a fitting recognition of her lifelong dedication.”