The Hexham Courant has done it again, and I couldn’t be prouder to see this one in print.

When my hometown paper covered my knighthood earlier this year, I said there was something quietly special about seeing your life covered by the place that shaped you. That feeling hasn’t changed. If anything, it’s stronger this time.

The Courant reported that I received the Freedom of the City of London during a ceremony at the Chamberlain’s Court in Guildhall and noted that Sir Charles Bowman, former Lord Mayor of London, served as my sponsor for the honour. Hexham Courant

To have been nominated by Sir Charles, and to have attended the ceremony alongside family and close friends before joining Sheriff Keith Bottomley and Sir Charles at the Judge’s Luncheon at the Old Bailey, it was a day I will never forget.

The Courant also noted that the Freedom of the City of London is believed to have originated in 1237, when it was a requirement for those who wished to carry out business in the City of London, making it one of its most ancient traditions.

The full story behind this honour, what it means, who made it possible, and why it matters to me personally, is told in my dedicated post here: Mark Clayton Receives Freedom of the City of London →

This is my second appearance in the Hexham Courant in 2025, following their coverage of my investiture as a Knight Officer of the Order of the Knights of Rizal in February. Two in one year, not bad for a lad from Hexham!

Every time I see my name in that paper, I think of the town, the people, and the upbringing that gave me the foundation to build the life I have. Hexham made me, and I carry it with me everywhere, from Zhuhai to Manila to the Guildhall in London.

Thank you, Hexham.

🔗 Read the original article in the Hexham Courant 🔗 Read the full blog post: Freedom of the City of London 🔗 Connect with me on LinkedIn

Mark Clayton FCMA CGMA CPA KOR — Group CFO, C2W Group | Chairman, British Chamber of Commerce South China | Proud Hexham lad