On Monday evening, an emotional Steve Cotterill described receiving the Freedom of the Borough as an “incredible honour” during a ceremony at a packed Cheltenham Town Hall.
As the hometown club’s manager, Cotterill received the highest civic accolade that the local council can award, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Cheltenham Town FC. Introduced by former Robins chairman Councillor Paul Baker, Cotterill was presented with a medal, scroll, and gown, officially becoming an Honorary Freeman of Cheltenham.
He expressed gratitude to Greg Newcombe and the Robins Trust for initiating a petition signed by over 1,000 people, which played a key role in securing this honour. After congratulating fellow recipients David Bath and Clare Seed, Cotterill shared heartfelt memories of his early football days.
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“I remember kicking a ball around Elmfield Park at every chance I could get,” he said. “My grandad painted a square and circle on our shed wall where I practiced, often taking off my right shoe to improve my left foot.”
He recounted his football journey from those local beginnings to playing in the Premier League at iconic stadiums like Old Trafford. “I looked to my right and there was Gary Pallister, to my left Steve Bruce, and in front Bryan Robson. I thought: ‘I’m not getting a kick here!’”
Cotterill also fondly recalled the FA Trophy open-top bus parade 28 years ago, celebrated the day after their Wembley victory, culminating with a reception at the Town Hall.
“A year later, we stepped up to the Football League – a moment I am extremely proud of alongside Paul Baker and Colin Farmer, who led a supportive board,” he said. “This achievement not only introduced professional football to the area for the first time but also brought immense community benefits.”
He emphasized the importance of establishing a football academy, giving young local players a pathway to professional football in their hometown—a chance he never had.
Reflecting on his schooling at Elmfield Junior School and Arle Comprehensive, Cotterill joked about his school reports saying: “Stephen must stop talking about football in class because he will never make a living out of it.”
Looking back over a 40-year playing and managerial career, Cotterill paid tribute to his family for their unwavering support. “This profession is all-consuming, and they’ve been incredible.”
He spoke about his recent return to manage Cheltenham Town in September, rescuing the club from the bottom of the league to finish 18th. “Coming back to Cheltenham, where it all started, allowed me to reconnect with the original generation and the new supporters—this has been truly special.”
Cotterill extended thanks to Tyler Kilmister and the 1887 Red Army for their passionate backing, as well as the club’s supporters and key figures like Mike Garlick, David Bloxham, Paul Godfrey, Clive Gowing, and former shareholder Charles Jennings for their vital support.
“This honour is nothing short of incredible for me and my family,” he concluded, pausing as emotion welled up. “Thank you.”