Freedom of the county borough

Freedom of the county borough is the highest accolade that this council can bestow, and it is granted for outstanding service to, or achievement associated with the Caerphilly county borough.

To date, there have been two recipients of the freedom of the county borough, Joe Calzaghe CBE and The Royal Welsh.

Joe Calzaghe MBE

In May 2009, Joe Calzaghe CBE was the first person to be granted the prestigious title at a special ceremony held at Caerphilly County Borough Council's headquarters, Penallta House.

When he was awarded the honour, Joe said, "Being the first person to receive this award is a great honour, and it has totally blown me away. The scroll will take pride of place in my home and I would like to thank the council from the bottom of my heart for recognising me in this way".

Joe Calzaghe is a great ambassador for the area through a career that has made him known worldwide as a boxing legend, as well as his commendable charity work.

Visit the Joe Calzaghe website

The Royal Welsh

In September 2010, the brave men and women of The Royal Welsh were granted the Freedom of the County Borough.

Thousands of residents turned out in force to show their support for the troops at two special parades in Caerphilly and Blackwood.

The first parade took place in Caerphilly town centre on Saturday morning. The regiment set off from St Martins Comprehensive school, and made their way down through the town centre before assembling for the official ceremony at the cenotaph outside the Visit Caerphilly Centre.

After formally receiving the Freedom of the County Borough in Caerphilly, the regiment were then transported to Blackwood where they will started their second parade. The troops set off from the former Somerfield car park before marching along the High Street and past dignitaries assembled at the front of Blackwood Miners Institute.

The ceremony emphasised the glorious achievements and splendid tradition of The Royal Welsh; the special appreciation and remembrance of all those men and women who serve or have served in the forces, and equally as important, highlighted the close bonds of friendship between Caerphilly county borough and The Royal Welsh.

The Royal Welsh march through Blackwood video