Agenda and draft minutes

To receive the apologies of any Member who is unable to attend the meeting.

Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Allen, A. Carter, C. Carter, T. Collingham, Duncan, Hall, Hughes Jackson, Keenan, Lelliott, Marshall, Mault, Pitchley and Stables.

To bestow the honour of the Freedom of the Borough on Christine Lunn MBE.

In accordance with Section 249(5) of the Local Government Act 1972 and Minute Number 80 of the Council meeting held on 5 November 2025, it was before the Extraordinary Meeting of the Council to admit Christine Lunn MBE as an Honorary Freewoman of the Metropolitan Borough of Rotherham.

The Mayor began the meeting by introducing Mrs Lunn MBE and welcoming her guests. She explained that to be granted the title of Honorary Freeman/Freewoman of the borough was a mark of distinction upon the person that the Council wished to honour.

It was confirmed that Christine Lunn MBE had been awarded the Freedom in recognition of her outstanding service to Children and Young People across the Borough as a Foster Carer with over 50 years’ service and in recognition of fostering over 250 young people.

It was noted that the proposal had been endorsed by the Mayor, the Leader of the Council and the leaders of the opposition groups.

The Mayor read the following citation:

Members, in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 249(5) of the Local Government Act 1972, and pursuant to a resolution passed at the Council meeting held on 5 November 2025, the Council hereby admits:

Mrs Christine Lunn MBE as an honorary Freewoman of the Borough of Rotherham.

Members joined the Mayor in congratulating Mrs Lunn MBE on the award.

Mrs Lunn MBE was then invited to sign the Roll of Honorary Freewomen along with the Mayor and Chief Executive of the Council. She was then presented with the framed illuminated address and pendant.

Mrs Lunn MBE responded by stating that it had been one of the greatest privileges of her life to provide a safe place with plenty of love for so many children. She was honoured to be part of the story of the children and babies that had shared her and her husband Pete’s home and family life. Mrs Lunn expressed her pride at continuing to have long lasting relationships with some of the children that she had cared for over the years.

The Mayor confirmed that a civic reception would be held for Mrs Lunn MBE, her guests and members following the conclusion of the meeting.