Dame Kelly Holmes receives Freedom of London

Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes has been given the Freedom of the City of London, an accolade awarded in recognition of the recipient's contribution to society.

The athlete won 800m and 1500m gold medals at the 2004 Olympics in Athens, having overcome injuries and struggles with mental health earlier in her career.

In 2022 she said she "finally felt free" after coming out as gay, having hidden her sexuality for decades due to fear, especially while in the Army at a time when gay people were banned from serving.

Dame Kelly was the guest of honour at the official residence of the Lady Mayor of the City and then took part on the panel of a Pride event.

After receiving the Freedom, Dame Kelly said she was "incredibly honoured".

She added: "Much of my life has been about finding the confidence to be myself on and off the track. Being able to speak openly about my experiences and connect with others who feel the same has been hugely important.

"It's a privilege to be part of Pride activity across the City and to see so many people coming together.

"Days like this are a powerful reminder of why visibility and inclusion, and creating spaces where everyone can belong, really matter."

Alderman Tim Hailes who is in line to become the City's first openly gay Lord Mayor, said he had "long admired Dame Kelly not just for what she achieved on the track, but for the honesty and strength she has shown in telling her story.

"That combination of resilience, talent and authenticity is incredibly powerful to me, and it felt absolutely right to recognise her in this way at a moment that celebrates the diversity of our City."

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