Whittlesey Town Council is proud to announce that it will award the Freedom of the Town
to Mr Wally Newman, a much-loved Whittlesey resident who celebrated his 100th birthday shortly before Christmas.
The ceremony took place at the Council Chambers in Whittlesey on Saturday 31st January 2026.
Mr Newman has lived a life of remarkable service and commitment. Although under the official age to enlist during the Second World War, Wally bravely joined the Royal Navy, serving aboard HMS Moon, a minesweeper operating in the Mediterranean. Following the end of the war in Europe, he continued his service in the Far East, where his ship assisted in the Relief of Singapore.
After returning home to Whittlesey, Wally became deeply involved in the life of the town. He was a stalwart member of the Whittlesey branch of the Royal British Legion, serving as its chairman for almost twenty years. Today, he continues to attend almost every town event, gives talks to local schools and community organisations and remains a proud and faithful ambassador for Whittlesey.
At its December meeting, Whittlesey Town Council unanimously voted to approve the award of Freedom of the Town. Following the debate and formal approval, the decision was met with a spontaneous round of applause from members of the public in attendance.
This honour recognises not only Mr Newman’s wartime service, but also his lifelong dedication to the community and his enduring contribution to civic life in Whittlesey.
Photos courtesy RWT Photography / Radio Fenland