Neil Hudgell and Tommy Coyle will receive the Honorary Freedom of the City of Hull

Honorary Freedom of the City awards for Coyle and Hudgell

Two of Hull’s well-known sporting figures are to be awarded the Honorary Freedom of the City.

The prestigious honour will be bestowed upon Tommy Coyle and Neil Hudgell.

Boxer Tommy proudly represented Hull in 30 professional fights, winning 25 of them.

His numerous career highlights include winning the WBC International Silver, IBF International, and Commonwealth titles, all at lightweight level.

Tommy has also thrown himself into work within Hull’s communities that has made a lasting mark, as a tireless advocate for young people.

Neil is the owner of Hull KR, the current holders of the Challenge Cup and in the midst of one of the most successful stints in the club’s history.

Dr Hudgell is also recognised beyond the world of sport as Executive Chairman of Hudgell Solicitors, where his legal work has included representing victims of the Post Office Horizon scandal.

After nominations for both were agreed by Hull City Council’s Civic Committee, Full Council has now approved the awards, meaning both men will be granted the Honorary Freedom of the City at an official ceremony at a later date.

The chair of the Civic Committee is the Lord Mayor, Councillor Cheryl Payne, who said: “Both Tommy and Neil have established very successful careers from the city of Hull and are inspirations to others about what can be achieved here.

“They’ve both given back so much to the communities that made them, and the Honorary Freedom of the City is a very fitting honour for them.”

Multiple copies of the summer 25 edition of Hull CC News are seen on a white background