Rotherham United Chairman Tony Stewart was today admitted as an Honorary Freeman of the Borough in a service at the Town Hall today with Mayor of Rotherham, Cllr John Foden and Cllr Roger Stone.
Mr. Stewart who also owns ASD Lighting has been recognised for his ‘eminent service to the sport of football and his long and friendly association with the Rotherham Borough'.
The Chairman rescued the Millers when they were in administration and appeared to be on the brink of going out of business and after several years playing in Sheffield, he moved them back into a £20million purpose-built venue, New York Stadium which stands proud at the gateway to the town centre.
Upon receiving this honour, the Chairman said: “There is no greater privilege than to be named a Freeman of the Borough. It’s an honour bestowed on me by the people of Rotherham, which makes it very special. The award took me by surprise and I must say that I was tremendously grateful to be bestowed which such a special accolade.
“I’d like to thank Cllr Roger Stone and everybody at Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council who I have formed an excellent relationship with in my years of working in Rotherham, and many of whom have become close friends as well as colleagues.
"It has been a very special year for me personally and for the town of Rotherham, and I am sure that there will be many more to come."
Mr. Stewart is the third person with Rotherham United connections to be given this title, following Brian Chapple (2013) and Howard Webb (2011).
The Chairman will be officially honoured today pitch side at 2.50pm with a presentation form Cllr Roger Stone.