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Chichester Celebrates Community Excellence at the 39th Annual Awards and Freedom of the City Ceremony

Chichester came together on Friday 20 March 2026 to honour outstanding local achievements at the 39th Annual Awards and Freedom of the City Ceremony, held at the Chichester Festival Theatre. Residents, guests community leaders and local schools and learning institutions filled the auditorium for a morning that blended civic tradition, heartfelt recognition and a strong sense of local pride.

Jess Breach Granted Freedom of the City

The highlight of the ceremony was the granting of the Freedom of the City to international rugby star Jess Breach. Born in Chichester in 1997, Jess has become one of England’s most formidable players, known for her record‑breaking debut in 2017 and her rapid rise to more than 50 caps by 2025.

In her acceptance, Jess reflected on her deep connection to the city, crediting Chichester Rugby Club and the local community for shaping her early sporting life. Her ongoing commitment to coaching, fundraising and inspiring young players particularly girls was warmly acknowledged by the Council and applauded by the audience.

Honouring Chichester’s Heritage

This year’s ceremony also celebrated the city’s rich history with the unveiling of four new Blue Plaques. Three plaques recognised remarkable women whose influence continues to shape Chichester’s cultural identity:

  • Charlotte Turner Smith, pioneering poet and novelist
  • Margery Wilkinson, tireless activist and community advocate
  • Queen Elizabeth I, commemorating her 1591 visit during a major royal progress

A fourth plaque was dedicated to James Bennet Freeland, whose generosity and vision led to the creation of Oaklands Park, now one of Chichester’s most cherished green spaces.

Annual Awards

The Civic Award was presented to Julie Sandalls, owner of Julie’s Kiosk in Florence Park. Her café has become a vital community hub, hosting a foodbank that redistributes surplus items from local food charities to residents in need.

Additional awards recognised excellence across the arts, community work and local enterprise:

  • Art and Science Award – Chichester Creative Art Creative Network
  • Community Award – Creative Beatz and Jam Café
  • Small Business Award – Ghost at the Feast

Each recipient was celebrated for their creativity, dedication and positive impact on the city.

A Celebration of Chichester’s Spirit

The ceremony once again highlighted the strength, generosity and talent that define Chichester. From internationally recognised athletes to hardworking volunteers, the event showcased the many ways individuals and organisations contribute to the city’s character and wellbeing.

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