BILLY WALSH is to be made a Freeman of Wexford town in a major ceremony in November.

The announcement was made at last night’s meeting of Wexford Borough Council, where councillors voted unanimously in favour of awarding Mr. Walsh the prestigious status of Freeman of Wexford; something which has only been done a handful of times in the history of the town.

A major event in Wexford town is planned for November for Ireland’s High Performance Director, following his team’s great achievements at the London 2012 Olympics, bringing back a gold, silver and two bronze medals.

A civic reception planned for Mr. Walsh this Saturday has been cancelled.

Mayor Jim Allen proposed the motion at last night’s meeting in Council Chambers in the old county hall for Mr. Walsh to be made a Freeman of Wexford Borough instead, joining people like John F Kennedy.

Mr. Walsh will be formally given the Freedom of the Borough in November, which is the highest honour the Council can bestow on anybody.

Full story in this week’s Wexford Echo.