Graham Turner to receive Freedom of Hereford

Graham Turner will receive the freedom of Hereford tomorrow - just three weeks before he takes Shrewsbury Town into battle against the city's football team.

The 63-year-old will be given the honour in a formal ceremony at Hereford Town Hall.

Turner spent 15 years as manager of the Bulls, including 13 as chairman during which time the club enjoyed two promotions - including spending one season in League One - and were left on a secure financial footing.

The former Wolves and Aston Villa boss left Hereford in the summer as his career went full circle, taking up the manager's post at Shrewsbury some 26 years after he left his first stint in charge.

"It's a tremendous honour," said Turner.

"I had 15 years there and the club was in dire strait­s financially when we took over.

"When I left, it was in a very strong position financially and I think this honour is a recognition of what I did for the club in those 15 years.

"It was hard work and enjoyable. It was a challenge I had not experienced before in terms of being chairman of the club and I'm absolutely overwhelmed to be given the freedom of the city for my contributions over that period.

"A number of towns and cities realise how important a Football League club is to the community and Hereford is no different."

Turner admitted he is determined to savour the occasion tomorrow.

"I don't particularly enjoy ceremonies but it's such an honour and I'm delighted to be there," he added.

"Very few people have an opportunity like this and it's overwhelming."

Shrewsbury take on Hereford at the Greenhous Meadow on Tuesday, November 23.

By JAMES GARRISON