Calls for Cotterill to be given 'Freedom' honour

Cheltenham Town boss and hometown hero Steve Cotterill

- DANIEL CLARK

Cheltenham Town boss and hometown hero Steve Cotterill

(David Davies/PA)

STEVE Cotterill must be granted the Freedom of Cheltenham, according to a campaign which has been launched in the wake of the 61-year-old guiding Cheltenham Town to safety in Sky Bet League Two.

The petition, started by supporter Greg Newcombe, calls on Cheltenham Borough Council to recognise Robins boss Cotterill for three decades of “unparalleled achievement” and his enduring commitment to the area.

Cotterill, who grew up in the town, is widely regarded as the greatest manager in the club's history. His current stint has only cemented that legacy; after returning to the club in October 2025, with the Robins rock-bottom of the Football League, he has overseen a dramatic escape from the threat of non-League football.

“Steve Cotterill did far more than change results on the pitch,” the petition reads. “He transformed Cheltenham Town Football Club and reshaped the image of football within our town. Under his leadership, Cheltenham Town became a fully professional football club, a status that had previously existed only as an ambition”