The Head of Communications for Hull Trains, the company that runs services between Selby and London, has received Freedom of the City of London.
Richard Salkeld, 39, is a former TV reporter and presenter with ITV Tyne Tees and has also worked for LNER based in York.
A ceremony held in London’s historic Guildhall on Friday 14 November and was conducted by the Deputy Clerk to the Chamberlain Tiphaine Le Bian alongside Jason Groves from the Company of Communicators which is one of the newest livery companies in London.
The ceremony includes a formal declaration to both His Majesty the King and the first Lady Mayor of London, Dame Susan Langley.
The Freedom dates back to 1237. One of its more unusual privileges is the symbolic right to drive sheep across London Bridge.
Notable recipients of the Freedom of the City of London include Sir Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Sir Lenny Henry, Sir Ian McKellen, Sir Chris Hoy and Rachel Riley.
Richard is a volunteer with several charitable organisations in the North East, including the Royal Television Society which works to encourage young people to secure careers in media and the creative industries.
Originally from Consett, in County Durham, he began his career at ITV Tyne Tees where he worked in a range of roles on screen and off-screen.
He moved into PR and Communications roles for various train companies on the East Coast Main Line, Great Western Railway and is currently Head of Communications & Partnerships for the popular Newcastle based train operator, Lumo as well as Hull Trains.
Richard told YorkMix: “To be given the Freedom of the City of London is a moment of real pride, especially as a communicator from the North East of England. From reporting in Consett during my years at ITV Tyne Tees to supporting charities and championing communities across the region and beyond, I’ve always believed in the value of meaningful storytelling. This honour reflects the people and organisations I’ve had the privilege to serve, support and champion along the way.”
