The Peterborough Evening Telegraph
Ski star Jade is granted honour by home town
Four-time Paralympic medallist Jade Etherington has been granted the freedom of Bourne at a packed civic reception. Jade (23) was granted the honour at the end of her homecoming tour on Monday. The former Baston Primary and Deepings School pupil won three silver medals and one bronze at the games in Sochi.
Mayo r o f B o u r n e D av - id Higgs welcomed Jade to Bourne Corn Exchange before introducing her to a cheering crowd.
Jade met the public and answered questions before going inside for the ceremony.
Earlier in the day she visited her two old schools - Baston Primary and The Deepings School - along with Bourne Grammar, Bourne Academy, Bourne Westfield and Bourne Abbey.
S h e a l s o s p e nt t i me at Sainsbury’s in Exeter Street. Jade was driven around in a vintage car with her grandparents.
Speaking to staff and customers at Sai nsbury’s s he said: “Going back to Baston was lovely. That’s where it all started.
“There is a teacher there who I know and it was really good to see everyone.
She added: “The kids all knew about me and were asking loads of really good questions. “It was really enjoyable.” Alexandra Parker, 10, from Corby Glen, was delighted to meet Jade after watching her Sochi success on television.
She said: “She’s very brave. It was a really cool surprise to meet her.
“The medals were ve r y heavy.”
Ruth Maltby (74) of Deeping Road, Baston, made a special trip to meet Jade.
She used to work at the old Baston Primary School for 19 years as a dinner lady.
Ruth said: “Jade has done so well and I thought I must go and see her.
She added: “It’s really good for Bourne and the area.”