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Lucian Hudson receives Freedom of the City of London

23 September 2026
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Alderman Tim Hailes, Lucian J Hudson, wife Margaret and cousin Antonina

Our Executive Director, Communications & External Relations, Lucian J Hudson, has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London.

The honour recognises his contributions to environmental affairs, civic engagement and cross-sector collaboration throughout a distinguished public service career.
Lucian received the honour at a ceremony in The Guildhall, City of London.

Recognition for public service and leadership in collaboration

The Freedom of the City of London is one of the City's oldest traditions.
Today, it recognises people who have made significant contributions to public life, their profession or the wider community.
Lucian's career spans more than 40 years across Government, media, civil society and higher education.
He has built a reputation for leading and enabling organisations, communities and policymakers to work through complex challenges.
Before joining Durham University, Lucian held senior communications leadership roles across government and higher education.
These included senior positions at the University of Oxford, The Open University, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the Ministry of Justice and the Cabinet Office.
His achievements cover major global, national and regional issues, including environmental policy and society’s response to Foot and Mouth Disease and other risks to the public.
Lucian joined Durham University in June 2020. In January 2023, he was appointed Professor in Practice (Leadership and Organisations) at Durham University Business School. Through this role, he contributes professional expertise to Durham EDGE, the Business School's platform for executive and professional education.

A historic City of London honour

The Freedom of the City of London dates back to the 13th century.
One traditional route to becoming a Freeman is through membership of a City livery company.
Originally established as medieval trade guilds, livery companies continue to support education, charitable causes and professional standards.
Lucian received the Freedom through his membership of the Worshipful Company of Farriers.
The Farriers' Company is one of the City's historic livery companies.
Founded more than 650 years ago, it promotes the welfare of the horse and supports the farriery profession.
The company also helps preserve the traditions of the City of London while advancing education and charitable work.
Find out more

Image caption (left to right): Alderman Tim Hailes with Lucian J Hudson, wife Margaret and cousin Antonina.