Barry Nealon is the latest Ryer to be made an honorary freeman of the town, the first awarded in over two and a half years. In a ceremony at the town hall on Monday, May 12 the mayor, Andy Stuart described him as a “real rock in our community” as he handed over a commemorative scroll.
The award – for voluntary services to the community – was unanimously voted through after a passionate nomination from Cllr Rebekah Gilbert. “He has enthusiasm, power and an ability to get things done. We are incredibly lucky to have him, not just for the work he has done with the swimming pool, but also the hospital and town bus too. He really is a fantastic citizen.”
After posing for photos and enthusiastic applause, Barry Nealon explained what the award meant to him. “It’s a huge privilege and means an enormous amount. Rye is such a wonderful place and everyone rallies round whenever anything is needed. So much happens here with the support of the local community.”
Friends and family joined Barry in the council chamber thanks to Paddy Coulman. “It was a complete surprise when my son and daughter turned up. We celebrated afterwards at the George.”
Speaking after the event he explained why he thought he was nominated. “When I was working in New York I learnt that anything is possible if you have the will. Moving to Rye 40 years ago and living here full-time for the last two decades I felt there were things I could do. It started with being persuaded to work at the hospital, which led to getting involved in the bus, day centre and swimming pool.”
Chairman of Rye Hospital since 2010, he is also chair of the company that has taken on the running of Rye Leisure Centre. “I have staying power and an ability to galvanise things, but I’ve had amazing support. I’ve been very fortunate to work with people who want to make a difference and continue to do so.”
He says his main priority now is making a success of the sports centre. “Local people have been so generous so far and there’s some good news about the increased attendances since we took it on last month, but there’s more to do.”
Image Credits: James Stewart .
Congratulations on your well deserved recognition from the town.
Quite rare to find someone willing to have a ‘can do’ attitude and lead others to enable projects to happen and remain a benefit to the community.