The Milton Keynes City Council convened to bestow the Freedom of the City upon Dean Lewington, a distinguished figure in English football. This honor, rarely given, recognizes Lewington's record-breaking achievement of playing the most games for a single club in English Football League history. The motion was carried unanimously, celebrating Lewington's contributions to both the sport and the Milton Keynes community.

Freedom of the City of Milton Keynes

The council voted unanimously to confer the Freedom of the City of Milton Keynes on Dean Lewington, in recognition of his record of having played the highest number of games for a single club in English Football League history.

Councillor Peter Marland, Leader of the Council, moved the motion, noting the rarity of the Freedom of the City honour, which Milton Keynes had only awarded five times previously. He stated that the city's founding principles of equality and fairness meant the bar for such recognition was set high. He praised Dean Lewington's meritorious service to the city and personal achievement, highlighting his 917 games for MK Dons, a record in the Football League. Councillor Peter Marland also noted Lewington's leadership, community engagement, and personal qualities, including his dedication to Milton Keynes, where he married and raised a family, and concluded by stating that Lewington embodied the spirit of the city and wholeheartedly deserved the honour.

Councillor Jane Carr, Liberal Democrat Group Leader, seconded the motion, acknowledging the sacrifices made by Lewington's family and reflected on the impact of Lewington's career on the city and its young people, noting his consistency, stamina, and loyalty. Councillor Jane Carr praised his influence as a role model and his embodiment of true loyalty, and thanked him for his service to the club and the city.

Former Councillor Catriona Morris spoke, recalling her mayoral year where her charity was MK Dons Sport and Education Trust. She shared personal memories of Lewington's warmth and community spirit and praised Lewington's continued contributions to the club, including over 200 additional games and multiple stints as first-team manager. She congratulated him on the honour and thanking him for his dedication to MK Dons and Milton Keynes.

Councillor Shazna Muzammil, Conservative Group Leader, expressed admiration for Lewington's loyalty and dedication. She noted the rarity of a footballer committing their entire career to one club and praised Lewington's leadership through both triumph and adversity. She emphasised the humanity behind Lewington's career and his ongoing role in mentoring future players and concluded by congratulating Lewington and wishing his family well.

Councillor Mick Legg, Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services, recalled presenting Lewington with a special Mayor's Award during his own mayoral year and praised Lewington's dedication and inspiration to young people across the city, particularly in grassroots football. He described Lewington as a true legend and thanked him for his contributions.

Dean Lewington addressed the Council, expressing his gratitude and humility. He reflected on his 23-year journey in Milton Keynes, his early impressions of the city, and his decision to stay despite others moving away. He emphasised the importance of people in shaping the club and the city, acknowledging colleagues and behind-the-scenes staff. Lewington spoke of his pride in community outreach and the club's role in fostering belonging. He thanked his family for their sacrifices and shared his continued passion for the club, despite retiring from playing. He concluded by expressing his appreciation for the honour and his commitment to shaping the club's future.

The Local Government Act 1972, as amended by Section 29 of the Local Government, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009, empowers the Council to confer the Freedom of the City to individuals of distinction. The council noted that a motion to confer the Freedom of the City needed to be carried by a majority of at least two-thirds of those Members present.

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