Freestyle swimming double Olympic gold medallist Tom Dean, MBE, received the Freedom of the at a ceremony today in recognition of his services to sport.
Representing Great Britain, Tom clinched gold individually in the 200-metre freestyle, and as part of a team in the 4 × 200m freestyle relay at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo.
He also competed at the 2020 European Championships where he won three gold and two silver medals in the team events and one individual bronze in the 200m freestyle.
Tom also won a bronze medal in the 200m freestyle at the World Aquatics Championships in 2022, the first medal won by a swimmer representing Great Britain at the event.
This year, he won the gold medal at the British Swimming Championships in the 200m medley.
Tom Dean said:
‘I am absolutely thrilled and humbled to be bestowed with this honour. The Freedom of the City is a significant recognition for outstanding achievement and a living tradition that I’m proud to be a part of. I couldn’t be in better company alongside Royals, Prime Ministers, social reformers and top talent from the sports and culture sectors. A true honour.’
Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said
“Tom starred at the 2020 Olympic Games and his contributions to sport have been exceptional.
“He exemplifies everything that is good about sport. This award is richly deserved.”
City Corporation elected Member, Alderman Robert Howard said:
“This award highlights Tom’s outstanding historic and ongoing achievements. His contributions to sport have been immense. We wish him all the best with his preparations for Paris in 2024.”
City Corporation Lead Member for Sport, Edward Lord, said:
“I am delighted we are recognising someone who is a role model for anyone wanting to participate in sport. Tom is someone who has enjoyed huge success and continues to excel.”
One of the ’s ancient traditions, the Freedom is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients to carry out their trade.
As well as being nominated for, or applying for, the Freedom, it is also offered by the Corporation to individuals as a way of paying tribute to their outstanding contribution to London or public life, or to celebrate a very significant achievement.
Recent high-profile recipients include Arsenal and England footballing legend Ian Wright, singer-songwriter, Ed Sheeran; LGBTQ+ activist and London Night Czar, Amy Lamé; former England football captain and Tottenham Hotspur striker, Harry Kane; and Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert, who initiated and led the development of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
The Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK.
';
