A Derby landlord has been awarded the Freedom of the City of Derby for his exceptional fundraising efforts.
Steve Kirk, the landlord of The Neptune Pub on Osmaston Road has been awarded the honour in recognition of his fundraising efforts and commitment to Derby. During his 27 year tenure at The Neptune, Steve has raised more than £120,000 for the Royal British Legion (RBL).
In April 2024, the Council voted to award Freedom of the City of Derby to Mr Kirk – the highest honour that the Council can give to an unelected member of the public. The award is given to a person of distinction or a person who has served the city in a notable and significant way.
Mr Kirk’s tireless and extensive charity work has included coordinating hundreds of volunteers in support of community events as well as individual feats of endurance, which have raised thousands of pounds in sponsorship.
Councillor Ged Potter, Mayor of the City of Derby, said:
The Freedom of the City is the highest honour that we can give someone, and we believe that Steve represents some of the very best that our city has to offer. What Steve has achieved and the way that he has served his community is remarkable. I’m thrilled that we’re able to honour his hard work by awarding him this prestigious honour. Congratulations Steve!
At a civic ceremony today (Monday 22 July), Steve was presented with the honour by Councillor Ged Potter, Mayor of the City of Derby. Also present was Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of the Council and Councillor Phil Ingall, Leader of The Independent Group who nominated Steve for the honour.
Steve now joins other local legends who have received the award such as Sandy Ryan, WBO Women’s Welterweight Champion, Brian Clough, former Derby County Football Club Manager, Adam Peaty, Olympic Gold medallist and Reg Harrison, FA cup-winning Rams footballer.