Phil Parkinson Awarded Freedom of Wrexham for Historic Achievements

Wrexham AFC’s manager, Phil Parkinson, received the Freedom of Wrexham on October 17, 2023, marking the highest civic honour the city can bestow. This recognition comes after Parkinson’s remarkable leadership, which has seen the club achieve unprecedented success over the past three seasons.

During a Full Council meeting, councillors voted unanimously to confer this honour upon Parkinson. The council acknowledged his role in guiding Wrexham AFC through a historic period, securing three consecutive promotions from the National League to League Two in 2023, then to League One in 2024, and finally to the Championship in 2025. Council Leader Mark Pritchard highlighted the profound impact of Parkinson’s work on both the football club and the broader community.

“Football is the beating heart of Wrexham. It is in our blood. It’s part of who we are,” Pritchard stated. He emphasized that Parkinson’s achievements are unparalleled in the history of English football, making him one of the club’s greatest managers.

The honour does not bestow any specific rights traditionally associated with the title, such as the ability to drive sheep through the city centre, but it symbolises the “rights, privileges, honours and distinctions which are enjoyed by free men of the county.”

Parkinson’s influence extends beyond the pitch. Deputy Council Leader David A Bithell, a lifelong supporter, recalled the memorable game against Boreham Wood, where Wrexham secured promotion from the National League. “That game wasn’t perhaps the best of football, but it was the most enjoyable,” Bithell remarked, praising the manager’s ability to inspire the team.

Following the unanimous vote, Mayor Tina Mannering formally announced the award, stating, “Mr Phil Parkinson has been awarded freedom of the county borough.” In his response, Parkinson expressed gratitude for the support he and his family have received since moving to North Wales.

“Firstly, just a big thank you for approving today’s proposal to confer upon me the honorary freedom of the county borough of Wrexham,” he said. Parkinson acknowledged the warmth of the local community and credited his backroom staff, players, and club owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, for their unwavering support.

He noted that the club’s rise in stature has been a collective effort, stating, “What is now happening on the pitch, with the plans for the further development of the stadium and the surrounding area, is thanks to you and to all those in the local community who are working tirelessly to take the city and its people forward.”

Parkinson also looked forward to engaging with the community, encouraging fans to attend matches at the Racecourse Ground and participate in local events supported by the Wrexham Foundation.

The Freedom of Wrexham has been awarded previously to Reynolds and McElhenney, recognizing their contributions to revitalizing the club and the city. The council’s decision to honour Parkinson alongside them reflects the significance of his achievements.

“Back-to-back-to-back will live long in our memories,” the Mayor concluded, underscoring the historical importance of recent seasons for Wrexham AFC. “Your contribution to this cannot be underestimated. I’m sure there are equally exciting times ahead.”

Despite the celebratory atmosphere surrounding the award, there remains a lingering issue regarding the lack of footage from the previous freedom presentation to Reynolds and McElhenney, which has drawn scrutiny. Nonetheless, the focus remains on Parkinson’s remarkable journey and the bright future he is helping to shape for Wrexham AFC and its community.