'Outstanding' Frank Cottrell-Boyce receives Sefton's highest honour
Acclaimed screenwriter, author, and Children’s Laureate Frank Cottrell-Boyce has been awarded Sefton’s highest honour.
The Honorary Freedom of the Borough is the the highest accolade the council can bestow and recognises Cottrell-Boyce’s “outstanding contributions to arts, literature, and community engagement” across Sefton
Born and still living in the area, he has become a national treasure through his celebrated screenwriting, award-winning children’s books and his tireless advocacy for literacy and creativity.
His books often feature Bootle in a positive light, and the council says his generosity with time and encouragement has made a “lasting impact” on families and educators across Sefton.
A civic reception will be held at Bootle Town Hall following an Extraordinary Council meeting, where the formal resolution will be passed.
Councillor Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said: “Frank Cottrell-Boyce is a true inspiration and a cherished member of our community.
“His work has brought joy to millions and his commitment to nurturing creativity and literacy in Sefton is nothing short of remarkable. We are immensely proud to honour him with the Freedom of the Borough – a recognition he richly deserves.”
Frank Cottrell-Boyce added: “It’s a huge honour to receive the Freedom of the Borough from a place that has shaped so much of who I am.
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“Sefton is full of stories, full of heart, and full of hope – and I’ve always tried to reflect that in my work. I’m deeply grateful to the council and to the community for this recognition.”
In receiving the Freedom of the Borough, Frank joins a distinguished list that includes local footballers Jamie Carragher and Alex Greenwood and the late Donald “Ginger” McCain, trainer of three-time Grand National Winner Red Rum.
Sefton Council has also awarded the Freedom of the Borough to Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust and Southport and Ormskirk Hospital NHS Trust. This was in recognition of their staff's "hard work and dedication during the Covid-19 pandemic".