Dame Susan Snowdon DCVO and Dr Robert McManners were awarded the Freedom of the Town in the inaugural ceremony held by Bishop Auckland Town Council, marking the beginning of a new tradition. "The support shown by our community reflected the importance of this milestone as we honoured two individuals whose contributions to Bishop Auckland have been truly exceptional. She said: "I thank Bishop Auckland Town Council most sincerely for conferring the Freedom of Bishop Auckland. This first ceremony marks the start of what is intended to become a new civic tradition in Bishop Auckland. The Town Council said the enthusiastic turnout and support from residents made the inaugural ceremony a fitting and memorable occasion.