The lifelong Doncaster resident was presented with a Freedom of the City Award in a ceremony at the Mansion House in recognition of his achievements, dedication and work to promote the city. This is the first time since Doncaster attained city status in 2022, a Freeman appointment has been made. Advertisement Advertisement Did you know with an ad-lite subscription to Doncaster Free Press, you get 70% fewer ads while viewing the news that matters to you.
The accolade is the highest honour that a local resident can receive and recognises their achievements and support in the Doncaster community. Born and educated in Doncaster, Baron Kirkham founded the company that became DFS in 1969. The company established its national head office here, alongside its factories, distribution centres and retail units providing thousands of jobs over the years.
Helping both local and national charities with specialist resources, expertise, and influence, Baron Kirkham has dedicated himself to making a difference to the lives of those in need. Advertisement Advertisement His many accolades include a knighthood in 1996 for charitable service, a CVO from HM Queen Elizabeth II in 2001 and a second knighthood (KCVO) in 2021 recognising his decades long commitment and Chairmanship of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Charity. He said: “Doncaster is a wonderful city that I am proud to call my home – to be awarded the highest accolade of Freeman of the City is a tremendous honour and the presentation .