After years of committed volunteer work and community involvement, Dave Bath has been bestowed with the Freedom of the Borough of Cheltenham—the highest civic honour a local council can award. This accolade recognises exceptional service to the community as well as outstanding achievements of national significance.
The award was presented to Dave during the 2026 Cheltenham Mayor Making Ceremony and Annual Inauguration on Monday, May 18, at the Town Hall, in front of a packed audience. The celebratory evening also featured performances from dancers and singers.
“I was so shocked. I never expected it!” the 52-year-old reflects. “I received a phone call before the event to break the news, and I kept saying thank you. I wasn’t allowed to tell anyone until the ceremony. It felt very surreal.”
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Originally from Staffordshire, Dave has lived in Cheltenham for nearly three decades. For the past 15 years, he has devoted his time as a volunteer at Cheltenham Saracens FC. In addition to this, Dave has organised a range of community food projects, including the successful Cheltenham Community Christmas Selection Box Appeal and the Easter Egg Appeal, which bring joy to those in need.
In 2024, Dave was also awarded the Cheltenham Medal of Honour.
“What motivates me most about volunteering is that people know my story, including my struggles with mental health,” he shares. “I started volunteering to reconnect with the community. There are still days when I don’t feel able to go out, but I’m lucky to have great friends like Marisa Regan, Gary Goodhall, and Ross Beamish from the Cheltenham Round Table who are always there for me.”
Dave also expresses gratitude to Graham Roberts, Brian Dix, and Chris Hawkins from Saracens, as well as his lifelong friend Sara-Louise Ackrill.
“Without her, I might never have started volunteering. She helped me get out of the house, and we still stay in touch.”
Alongside Dave, two others received the Freedom of the Borough: Clare Seed, for her work with Public Hearts CIC, and Steve Cotterill, for his achievements as manager of Cheltenham Town FC.
“For me, this award belongs to everyone who supports the appeals and volunteers,” Dave says. “Without them, none of this would be possible.”
Looking ahead, Dave remains hopeful about Cheltenham’s future.
“I believe Cheltenham is moving in a positive direction. If anyone is thinking about volunteering, there are plenty of groups welcoming new members.”
Currently, Dave is focusing on his work with the Saracens but takes each day as it comes.
“It would be wonderful to see these food appeals expand across Gloucestershire and nearby towns like Tewkesbury. There’s nothing like seeing the smiles on children’s faces to remind you how many caring people there are in Cheltenham.”