England footballer Beth Mead thanks Greatest Hits Radio for award support

The Lioness has been given Freedom of the Borough of Scarborough following a Greatest Hits Radio campaign

Author: Liam ArrowsmithPublished 20th Mar 2023
Last updated 20th Mar 2023

England footballer Beth Mead has said "thank you" to Greatest Hits Radio listeners, after a successful campaign to award her Freedom of the Borough of Scarborough.

Despite lifting the trophy at last summer's Euros, Beth was left off the list during the last round of nominations.

But after hundreds of people signed our petition, the decision was reversed, and Beth has today been given the award at a special ceremony.

Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio, the Lioness said: "I hugely appreciate the support that you guys have put out and I guess I'm only here today because of you guys and the listeners".

She added that she hoped local recognition would inspire girls in her hometown of Hinderwell to take up sport.

"It feels a little bit surreal that I can have that affect on so many girls, and especially in my local area," Beth said.

"I guess it gives them the motivation and the realisation that they can go and do that too".

The award was also given to Gloucester-Hartpury and England rugby union player, Zoe Aldcroft, from Scarborough.

Councillor Eric Broadbent, Mayor of the Borough of Scarborough, said:

“We are very proud of Beth and Zoe’s accolades in football and rugby union.

"As exports of our borough, their dedication to their sport, and their personal and team successes, are an inspiration to many girls and young women who have set their sights on a professional sporting career.

"They truly deserve the highest civic honour we can bestow."

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Greatest Hits Radio app.