City Award Moo-ves with the Times as Elaine C. Smith Receives Freedom of the City of Glasgow

Celebrated actress and comedy star Elaine C. Smith will be granted the Freedom of the City of Glasgow as part of the city's 850th birthday celebrations, during a civic reception on 7 March 2025. 

This prestigious award, the city's highest honour, will be presented by Lord Provost of Glasgow, Councillor Jacqueline McLaren on the eve of International Women's Day, recognising Elaine's remarkable contributions to the arts and her embodiment as an advocate for women's rights and the values celebrated on this day.

As only one of a handful of women who has received the award, Elaine, as a Freeman now has the privilege to trade freely within the Burgh (city of Glasgow), specifically on market days and has the right to:

• graze their cows on the common land (Glasgow Green);
• fish on the River Clyde;
• and the duty to patrol and guard the town:
• defend the town by arms. If they do not perform this duty they could be prosecuted for perjury of their oath, and, if convicted, they have a right to a prison cell of their own, without un-Freemen in it;
• to pay the equivalent of today's valuation tax and the right to be present at all court hearings.

In testing her newfound rights and privileges, Elaine chose to freely graze some livestock on common land, by borrowing some of Glasgow's prized Highland cattle from Pollok Country Park. 

Elaine said: "As a newly minted Freeman of Glasgow, I must say, it's quite the honour. But let's be clear, while I may be a 'Freeman' by title, I am, and always will be, a freewoman at heart."

"So, if you see me grazing Highland cattle on Glasgow Green or fishing in the Clyde, just remember, I'm exercising my rights as a free woman!"

Lord Provost, Councillor Jacqueline McLaren, added; "Elaine's dedication to advocating for and supporting woman, and her successful and impactful work in the arts, makes her a deserving recipient of the Freedom of the City.

"In her own way, Elaine has highlighted that while she holds the title of 'Freeman,' she proudly identifies as a freewoman, and I think this playful, yet profound sentiment perfectly captures the essence of the values we celebrate on International Women's Day."

One of Scotland's most beloved performers, Elaine has a prolific career spanning more than 40 years in radio, television, film, and theatre. She is best known for her iconic roles, portraying strong female characters, in television comedy series such as "City Lights" (BBC Scotland), "Naked Video" (BBC 2), and her own series "Elaine" (BBC Scotland). Her portrayal of Mary Nesbitt in the BBC2 hit sitcom "Rab C Nesbitt" and her award-winning role as Christine in the BBC comedy "Two Doors Down" have endeared her to audiences across the nation.

Elaine's extensive theatre work includes starring in productions like "Annie," "Calendar Girls," and the Susan Boyle musical "I Dreamed a Dream," which she co-wrote. She has also been a staple of the Glasgow pantomime scene, performing in numerous shows and winning accolades such as Best Fairy at the UK Pantomime Awards.

In addition to her acting career, Elaine is a passionate charity campaigner and political activist, particularly on issues related to the Scottish constitution, anti-poverty campaigns, and women's rights. 

Elaine has been involved in significant charitable work with her efforts supporting vulnerable women and children in her local community.

She has donated prizes for young women performers at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and New College Lanarkshire that has provided opportunities and encouragement for the next generation of female artists.

And, she has also received honorary doctorates from the University of Dundee, the University of Glasgow, and the Open University, as well as an honorary fellowship from New College Lanarkshire.

The Freedom of the City is the highest tribute a city can bestow, awarded to individuals who have rendered eminent service to the city. Elaine joins an elite group of Freemen, including Sir Billy Connolly, Nelson Mandela, Kenny Dalglish, and Sir Alex Ferguson.

Although few in numbers, previous female recipients of the Freedom of the City of Glasgow include the renowned scientist Marie Curie, who was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize.

As Glasgow celebrates its 850th anniversary, the city will host a series of events and activities to mark this milestone. Central to the celebrations are Clyde Chorus, a three-day music event, a People's Palace pop-up exhibition, and Taste the Place food experiences. All 23 wards of the city will host special activities, providing an opportunity to share stories about the city, its part, present and future.