Freestyle swimming double Olympic gold medallist Tom Dean, MBE, received the Freedom of the City of London at a ceremony yesterday in recognition of his services to sport.

Representing Great Britain, Tom clinched gold individually in the 200-metre freestyle, and as part of a team in the 4 × 200m freestyle relay at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo.

He also competed at the 2020 European Championships where he won three gold and two silver medals in the team events and one individual bronze in the 200m freestyle.

Tom also won a bronze medal in the 200m freestyle at the World Aquatics Championships in 2022, the first medal won by a swimmer representing Great Britain at the event.

This year, he won the gold medal at the British Swimming Championships in the 200m medley.

Tom Dean said:

‘I am absolutely thrilled and humbled to be bestowed with this honour. The Freedom of the City is a significant recognition for outstanding achievement and a living tradition that I’m proud to be a part of. I couldn’t be in better company alongside Royals, Prime Ministers, social reformers and top talent from the sports and culture sectors. A true honour.’

City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said

“Tom starred at the 2020 Olympic Games and his contributions to sport have been exceptional.

“He exemplifies everything that is good about sport. This award is richly deserved.”