An 18-year-old apprentice who deals with applications to receive the Freedom of the City of London has today himself received the City’s award, in recognition of his outstanding work ethic and professionalism.

Lewis Dance, who has been praised by his City of London Corporation colleagues for his dedication, teamwork, and maturity beyond his years, attended the ceremony at Guildhall with family members, friends, and colleagues.

Working in the City Corporation’s Freedoms Office, and its Business Support Department at Guildhall, Lewis, who commutes into the Square Mile from Hertfordshire, won the City Corporation’s Apprentice of the Year 2022 award.

Nominating him last year for that accolade, colleagues’ comments included “hardworking and unfailingly polite”, “provided exceptional advice and support”, and “there is nothing to fault about him.”

Lewis, who has developed a keen interest in data analytics and coding, has listed Great Ormond Street Hospital - where he underwent extensive treatment as a child - as one of the organisations that he wants to work for in the future.

Former Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman Ian Luder, and Vince Dignam, from the City Corporation’s Environment Department, nominated Lewis for the Freedom.

City Corporation elected Member, Alderman Ian Luder, said:

“Not just an asset to the Freedoms office, but also a valued member of the Business Support team, Lewis has received nothing but praise from everyone who works with him at Guildhall.

“I was delighted to nominate him for the Freedom, and I am sure that he will remember today’s ceremony for many years to come.”

Business Performance and Transport Group Manager at the City of London Corporation, Vince Dignam, said:

“In the same way that we are proud of our apprenticeship programme, and how it helps young people get a foot-hold in the world of work, Lewis takes great pride in his job, which was recognised by last year’s award and today, by his Freedom.”

Speaking after his Freedom ceremony, Lewis Dance, said:

“Ever since I attended my first ceremony at Guildhall, I knew that I wanted to become a Freeman and I am delighted to become the first apprentice in the history of the Chamberlain’s Court to receive the award.

“The Apprentice of the Year award changed my life, boosted my self-confidence, and has encouraged me to put myself forward for opportunities in a way that I wouldn’t have previously done.”

One of the City of London’s ancient traditions, the Freedom is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients, who were also required to join a Livery Company, to carry out their trade.

As well as being nominated for, or applying for, the Freedom, it is also offered by the City of London Corporation to individuals as a way of paying tribute to their outstanding contribution to London or public life, or to celebrate a very significant achievement.

ENDS

Notes to editors

For further information, please contact:

Andrew Buckingham, Media Officer (Arts, Culture, Heritage, Licensing), City of London Corporation / 07795 333060 / andrew.buckingham@cityoflondon.gov.uk

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK –  www.cityoflondon.gov.uk