Three of Helston’s freemen will be able to stand out from the crowd after being presented with special badges last week.

Brenda Edwards, Jean Simmonds, and Martin Matthews were all given their badges, designed to identify them at formal occasions, by mayor Mike Thomas at a meeting of Helston Town Council.

Mr Matthews thanked the councillors, and said he would enjoy being at a function with “all the top nobs around”, and it “would be nice to be recognised.”

He said the idea had first been raised 11 years ago, so that much like the councillors’ ties, the freemen would have a symbol to help them stand out.

He added: “I would just like to say a huge thank you to Michael for presenting it, and now we will wear it with pride.”

Jean Simmonds was conferred with the freedom of the town in 1995 for her work for voluntary organisations and her contribution to the enforcement of law and order as a Justice of the Peace.

Martin Matthews was given the freedom of the town in 2004 for his services as curator of Helston Folk Museum, and his dedication to safeguarding the history of the town. Brenda Edwards was given the freedom of the town in 2006 in recognition of her the work with the Victim Support organisation.