A heartfelt campaign is underway to award Cheltenham Town manager Steve Cotterill the prestigious Freedom of Cheltenham, as fans hail his remarkable contributions to both the club and the town. The petition, initiated by the Robins Trust through board member Greg Newcombe, urges Cheltenham Borough Council to formally recognise Cotterill’s extraordinary 30 years of dedication and success.
Born and raised in Cheltenham, Cotterill attended Elmfield Junior and Arle School, and has become widely regarded as the club’s greatest ever manager. Since his return to Cheltenham Town in October 2025, at a time when the team was languishing at the bottom of the Football League, he has orchestrated a stunning turnaround to help the Robins avoid relegation.
The petition highlights more than just on-pitch success: “Steve Cotterill did far more than change results on the pitch. He transformed Cheltenham Town Football Club and reshaped the image of football within our town. Under his leadership, Cheltenham Town became a fully professional club, fulfilling a long-held ambition.”
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Cotterill’s legendary first tenure from 1997 to 2002 saw the club rise swiftly from the sixth tier to the third, securing three promotions and an iconic FA Trophy victory at Wembley. The campaign’s call for the Freedom of the Borough comes as Cotterill prepares to mark 30 years since he first took charge at Whaddon Road in January 2027.
This rare honour is bestowed on individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the local community. Supporters also praise Cotterill’s personal strength, noting his recovery from a severe bout of Covid-19 in 2021 and his readiness to return during a crisis in late 2025.
“In October 2025, with relegation back to non-league football looming, Steve Cotterill once again answered the call of his club and his town,” the petition concludes, emphasizing his unwavering commitment.