A former Dudley borough councillor received a local authority honour for her community service this week.

Karen Shakespeare, who served on the council’s cabinet for many years, was made Honorary Freewoman. Councillor Hilary Bills, Mayor of Dudley, said:

“Karen has been an esteemed colleague over the years, with both of us serving the Halesowen community side by side for decades and Karen also holding the post of cabinet member for the environment for many years.

“I am delighted to present her with the Freedom of our wonderful borough.”

This is the third honour in two weeks for former councillors. Former Mayor, Ken Finch was also made an Honorary Alderman last week and former councillor Richard Body was also made an Honorary Alderman posthumously having sadly passed away in 2023.