Former chief executive of the Welsh Rugby Union, Roger Lewis, has been made a Freeman of the City of London. Cefn Cribwr-born Mr Lewis worked and lived in London from 1984 to 2004 holding senior positions at Capital Radio, BBC Radio 1, EMI Records, Decca Records and Classic FM.
Earlier this year he was made a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Stationers and Newspaper Makers, the livery company for the communication and content industries, earlier this year.
The freeman ceremony, which dates back to the 13th century, took place in the Chamberlain’s Court at Guildhall in the City of London. It was conducted by the clerk of the Chamberlain’s Court, escorted by the beadle of the court.
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Freemen have the right to drive sheep and cattle over London Bridge and to carry a naked sword in public. Another historical quirk is that if the City of London Police finds a freeman drunk and incapable, they will bundle them into a taxi and send them home rather than throw them into a cell.
Mr Lewis said: “It was a great pleasure to take part in such an ancient ceremony and to learn about the history and traditions of such a special occasion. I was allowed to view some items from the City of London archive which was a great privilege.
"However, I do hope I will not require the services of the City of London Police in the near future, but, as boy from Cefn Cribwr, I am not going to miss the opportunity to herd sheep over London Bridge next year.”
