VOLUNTEERS who offer a groundbreaking prostate cancer screening service, administered from the lounge of their local pub, have received a House of Commons commendation for their “life-saving work.” Founded more than two years ago the four-dozen strong group was the first of its kind in the region, their example now followed by four others in […]
Durham, 27th September 2026 — The Sands was full of wagging tails and proud owners on Sunday as crowds gathered for the annual Durham Dogs & Cats Home Fun Dog Show. The free event brought dogs and their families together for a day of friendly competition and raised over £2,000 to help the charity care for animals in need. […]
Eric Barlow was born in Foxes Row, Brancepeth, the son of an estate worker, and spent his early childhood in the heart of County Durham. His family later moved to Browney Colliery, where he attended the local primary school. In November 1963 the family relocated to Banbury, though Eric’s connection to the North East remained […]
Throughout its history Durham City Freemen has maintained strong connections with apprentices and the businesses and organisations operating within the city. For many years, both the Wardens and the Freemen have sought to recognise and celebrate the excellence, achievements and skills of local apprentices. With this in mind, I am delighted to report that this […]
The Guild is pleased to share a profile of Susanah Steenkamp, whose interest in joining the Freemen represents the continuation of a distinguished family lineage deeply rooted in the civic history of Durham. Susanah’s great grandfather, Baron Charles Ebdy, was himself a Freeman and a proud son of Durham. A respected architect, his contribution to […]
Arthur Lockyear who has been appointed press officer to the Freemen of Durham City served for 30 years an operational fire fighter with Tyne and Wear Fire & Rescue Service, and is the author of the book ‘Warriors in Fire Boots’ a tribute to the valour of fire fighters.
Press release Coventry Freemen For Immediate Release Coventry Freemen’s Guild Announces 80th Anniversary Dinner at Historic St Mary’s Guildhall The Coventry Freemen’s Guild will celebrate the 80th anniversary of its modern foundation with a formal Anniversary Dinner on Saturday 20 June 2026, to be held in the Guild’s historic home, the medieval St Mary’s Guildhall. […]
John was born into a mining family in 1944 at Esh Winning, the youngest of three boys and the only one not to work for the NCB.
John attended Esh Winning Infants and Junior School, then Waterhouses Secondary Modern School. After leaving school, John embarked on a journey in further education: one year full-time on a preparatory technical course at Bishop Auckland Technical College, followed by five years studying electrical and electronic engineering — three years at Durham Technical College and finally two years at Sunderland Technical College.
A journalist, who played a key role in charting the major resurgence and impact of the city’s Freemen across the last 15 years, has stepped down as press officer. George Oliver first retired in 2009 after 17 years as Durham Constabulary’s press and public relations manager after a career which started in the autumn of 1963.
On 2nd February 2026, two new Freemen were officially inducted during the Candlemas Guild Day ceremony. The honourees, Dave Cummings and Peter Carr, were sworn in amidst celebrations recognizing their contributions and dedication.