A passionate campaign is underway urging Cheltenham Borough Council to bestow the Freedom of Cheltenham upon Steve Cotterill, the revered Cheltenham Town manager. Fans and community members alike are hailing him as local royalty in recognition of his extraordinary contributions on and off the pitch.
The petition, initiated by the Robins Trust through board member Greg Newcombe, highlights Cotterill’s unparalleled three-decade legacy and unwavering dedication to his hometown. Growing up in Cheltenham and attending Elmfield Junior and Arle Schools, Cotterill has deep roots in the community and is widely regarded as the club’s greatest manager.
Cotterill’s current tenure, which began in October 2025 when the team was at the bottom of the Football League, has been nothing short of miraculous. His leadership was pivotal in pulling the Robins away from the brink of relegation into non-league football, securing the club’s status and future.
READ MORE: Gloucestershire County Council Launches £3.4m AI-Driven Overhaul to Tackle Rising Costs
READ MORE: Man Shot in Vehicle in Lechlade Sparks Attempted Murder Investigation
The petition eloquently states: “Steve Cotterill did far more than change results on the pitch. He transformed Cheltenham Town Football Club and reshaped how football is viewed throughout the town. Under his guidance, Cheltenham Town achieved fully professional status, turning a long-held ambition into reality.”
Cotterill’s first spell from 1997 to 2002 remains legendary, as he propelled the club from the sixth tier to the third tier in just over five years, clinching three promotions and lifting the FA Trophy at Wembley—a triumph etched in club history.
This campaign comes on the cusp of a monumental anniversary. January 2027 marks 30 years since Cotterill first took charge at Whaddon Road, a testament to his enduring influence.
The Freedom of the Borough is an esteemed accolade reserved for those who have made exceptional contributions to the local community. Supporters emphasize not only Cotterill’s sporting achievements but also his personal resilience, referencing his recovery from a severe bout of Covid-19 in 2021 and his courageous decision to return amid a club crisis in 2025.
“In October 2025, with relegation looming, Steve Cotterill once again answered the call for his club and community,” the petition concludes, epitomizing his commitment and heroism.