The latest person to be sworn in as Freeman of the City of Newcastle upon Tyne, is joining a civic tradition that stretches back more than 800 years, and he has Royal connections leading to two Kings.
Edward Thompson was raised on Wearside in Washington and Sunderland, Edward described the honour as a deeply personal milestone, rooted in family history and regional pride. The Freedom of the City is granted through historic guilds, and Edward was admitted through the Company of Curriers — a body historically associated with leatherworking, particularly the production of protective leather garments worn beneath metal armour. For centuries, currying was one of the essential leather trades, involving the cleaning, stretching and finishing of tanned hides through oiling, waxing and colouring.
“Being sworn in as a Freeman is a proud moment,” Edward said. “It’s about tradition, stewardship, and following in the footsteps of previous generations.”
The Freedom of the City has long been a hereditary right, historically passed down through families. Inheritance was limited to male lineage, until 2010, when women were first granted the right to become Freemen. Edward’s mother, whose brother had previously been admitted, proudly took up that opportunity. This also gave the right for children of female Freemen to apply — a change that enabled Edward’s own admission.
Historically, Freemen were responsible for running and defending the City, including maintaining common land around the city and were entitled to graze livestock on town land. Modern Freemen still take responsibility for working for the good of the City and the Region, particularly acting as custodians of Newcastle’s green spaces and civic heritage, preserving traditions that date back centuries.
Edward’s interest in history runs deep. During the COVID period, his family researched their ancestry, uncovering links to medieval peerage lines. Through marriage connections, Edward can trace family ties back over a thousand years, including distant connections to King John and direct descent to a historic King of the Isles and the Hebrides.
Now living in Spalding, Lincolnshire, Edward says the honour has strengthened his connection to Newcastle and its civic life. His swearing-in took place at the Civic Centre, and he hopes to visit the Guildhall in the future and take a more active role in Freeman events.
“Living away from the North East means I don’t get back as often as I’d like, but this gives me a real reason to return — and to stay connected to the city’s traditions.”
Edward’s admission adds another chapter to Newcastle’s long and living history, reinforcing the enduring importance of heritage, community and continuity across generations.
The Freemen of Newcastle upon Tyne have a proud history spanning more than 800 years. Today, they combine ancient tradition with active stewardship of land, environment and community opportunity, for the benefit of the City, the Region, residents and all stakeholders.
In addition to managing significant areas of the city’s green spaces, the Freemen play a vital role in enhancing civic life through initiatives that promote biodiversity, flood alleviation and public engagement. They also provide some of the city’s most iconic event spaces, supporting major events such as The Hoppings and the Come Together music festival.
The Freemen are drawn from all walks of life and are united by a shared passion for Newcastle and the wider region.