‘He’s played an irreplacable role’
A resident has been awarded with the honour of the Freedom of the Borough for his contribution to his community.
Dr Philip Whitbourn was presented with a commemorative scroll by the Mayor of Tunbridge Wells, Godfrey Bland, in a ceremony at the town hall.
Guests included Deputy Lieutenant of Kent, Mrs Georgie Warner, and representatives from the voluntary organisations Dr Whitbourn has been involved with, as well as his wife Anne, daughter Ms Katherine Gregory, and son Dr James Whitbourn.
After presenting the award the Mayor, Godfrey Bland, said: “Over 60 years Dr Whitbourn has quite simply conserved, preserved and improved the town of Tunbridge Wells.
“We can do no less that present him with the Freedom of the Borough, for which he has done so much.” Dr Whitbourn thanked the Mayor and council for presenting him with the award, saying: “This is the first time the highest award has been given to someone who wasn’t part of the council in some way.
“No council can do
everything it would like to do and that is where the voluntary sector comes in."
The 90-year-old has lived in Tunbridge Wells since 1958 and is a well-known figure in many of the town’s societies, having been a founding member of the Town Forum and the Royal Tunbridge Wells’ Civic Society, serving as chairman three times and as president from 1995 to 2007.
The honour was proposed by John Forster, the society’s past chairman, who highlighted Dr Whitbourn’s involvement in local architectural issues and planning matters, including his work preserving Trinity Theatre, which celebrated its 40th anniversary last year.
Greg Clark MP said in a statement: “Philip Whitbourn has played an irreplaceable role in shaping Tunbridge Wells as the attractive, historically rich and culturally vibrant place it is today.
“Over many years Philip has brought his deep professional expertise in architecture, town planning and history to the service of his own community – and always in a voluntary and energetic way.”
The Freedom of the Borough was last awarded in 2013 to to the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment.
In 1917, the honour was given to Charles Whitbourn Emson, a relative of Dr Philip Whitbourn.