Three Darlington stalwarts have been awarded for their dedicated services to the town. 

Councillors Heather Scott OBE, Doris Jones BEM and Dorothy Long have become Honorary Freewomen of Darlington, the highest distinction a local authority can bestow on an individual.

The trio took part in a special ceremony after council officials agreed to award the prestigious title. Such is the importance of the honour that it is sparingly awarded. The last recipient was the former council leader Bill Dixon in 2019.

Cllr Heather Scott was elected in 1976 to serve the Park West ward and has operated several roles including the first female leader of the council in its 152 year history. She received an OBE in recognition of her voluntary and community service in 1982 and shared her delight after receiving the latest accolade. 

She said: “Without the support of the electorate over 47 years this would not have been possible and I hope to continue to represent the residents in the future.”

The Northern Echo: The trio received their awards from Darlington mayor Anne-Marie Curry and Sue Snowdon The trio received their awards from Darlington mayor Anne-Marie Curry and Sue Snowdon (Image: Darlington Council)

The last woman to be granted the freedom of the borough was Lady Starmer in the 1980’s.

Cllr Doris Jones was elected in 1983 to serve the Haughton East Ward before representing Sadberge and Middleton St George Ward where she remains. Cllr Jones served the town as mayor in 2002-03 and received a BEM for her community service. 

“I cannot stress strongly enough what an honor it is to be given the title of Freewoman of the Borough of Darlington, especially as we three are the first females to follow the wonderful Lady Starmer, a Lady my parents had tremendous respect for,” said cllr Jones. 

“I was born in Darlington in 1942 and have lived here ever since – Darlington is my town and I am proud to have been able to represent the borough in the role of councillor for the last 40 years. This honour of freedom of my borough is the icing on the cake for me and a tremendous privilege.”

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In a career that spanned 35 years, former councillor Dorothy Long was involved in creating the Eastbourne Sports Complex, supported the creation of the brick sculpture 'Train' by David Mach in 1997, and the reimagining and conservation of South Park. 

On leaving the council, Mrs Long continued in her role as associate manager of a mental health trust, sitting on review panels until 2020.