Row over top honour being given out 'like Greggs pasty'

Concerns have been raised that South Tyneside Council's highest honour is now starting to be given out "like Greggs pasties.

- by Nick Marko

The comments came at a recent extraordinary meeting of South Tyneside Council, where councillors voted to bestow the prestigious Honorary Freedom of the Borough to singer Jade Thirlwall and restaurant owner Richard Ord MBE.

The prize is the highest accolade the local authority can bestow.

Council members recognised South Shields-born singer Jade, who rose to fame as part of Little Mix, for outstanding contributions as a cultural ambassador and her ongoing commitment to South Tyneside.

Richard Ord MBE, owner of the award-winning Colmans Fish and Chips and Colmans Seafood Temple, is to be honoured for exceptional entrepreneurship, philanthropy and services to the hospitality industry.