On 20th March 2025, Gillingham Town Council awarded the prestigious Freedom of the Town to Mary Bridle, honorary president of Gillingham Carnival, and to Gillingham Imperial Silver Band.

The special Freedom Ceremony was held at Gillingham Town Hall, where the Mayor, Councillor Roger Weeks, presented the awards in the presence of councillors, friends and family.

The Freedom of the Town is the highest civic distinction that Gillingham Town Council can bestow, recognising individuals and organisations that have made a significant and lasting contribution to the life and spirit of the town. This year’s recipients are two cornerstones of the community, each with a remarkable legacy of dedication and service.

Mary Bridle – A lifetime of service to the Gillingham Carnival

Mary Bridle has been a devoted supporter of the Gillingham Carnival for over 50 years, following in the footsteps of her late father, Walter. Since 1973, she has played an integral role in the carnival’s growth and success, taking on responsibilities as procession secretary, assistant treasurer, vice chairman, and ultimately president. Her meticulous organisation of the carnival’s processions, judging, trophies, and logistics has ensured the continued success of this cherished local tradition.

Beyond event coordination, Mary spearheaded the transformation of the carnival programme into a professionally-designed publication, increasing engagement and visibility.

She has also been instrumental in fundraising efforts, securing sponsorships and community support to sustain the event. Her work in securing safety measures, traffic management, and collaboration with local services has ensured that the carnival remains an enjoyable and well-organised occasion for all.

Mary’s impact extends beyond Gillingham, as she has supported carnivals throughout the region, acting as a judge and adviser. Her unwavering commitment has helped cement the Gillingham Carnival as the town’s largest and most anticipated annual event. Known affectionately as the ‘Queen of Gillingham Carnival’, her dedication has left an indelible mark on the community, fostering a deep sense of local pride and tradition.

Gillingham Imperial Silver Band – a century of musical excellence

With a history dating back to the late 1800s, the Gillingham Imperial Silver Band has been a pillar of the town’s cultural heritage for over a century. Initially formed as a jazz band before transitioning to a brass band in 1928, the group has played an essential role in civic and ceremonial life, strengthening community spirit through music.

The band has performed at numerous events, including the town’s annual Remembrance Parade, commemorative events such as the D-Day anniversary, the Platinum Jubilee, the King’s Coronation, and, of course, the Gillingham Carnival. They have also provided musical accompaniment to the Mayor’s annual Civic Carol Service and have performed at remembrance concerts and ex-servicemen funerals, playing the Last Post as a tribute to those who served.

In addition to its performance schedule, the band is deeply committed to musical education through its Student Academy. This initiative nurtures musicians of all ages and backgrounds, with some students going on to professional careers in military and civilian bands. Their dedication to making music accessible to all has ensured the continued growth and development of musical talent in Gillingham.

Remarkably, the Gillingham Imperial Silver Band has maintained its tradition of providing performances free of charge, demonstrating an extraordinary level of generosity and community service. Their unwavering commitment to enriching Gillingham’s cultural landscape makes them a truly deserving recipient of this esteemed honour.

A celebration of community spirit

The Freedom Ceremony was a momentous occasion, celebrating the outstanding contributions of both Mary Bridle and the Gillingham Imperial Silver Band. The council said their dedication and service have played a ‘crucial role’ in shaping the town’s cultural identity, strengthening unity, and in enhancing community life.

Gillingham Town Council said it was ‘immensely proud’ to recognise these ‘outstanding’ recipients, whose efforts have brought ‘joy, tradition, and a profound sense of community to generations of residents’.

It offered its congratulations to Mary Bridle and the Gillingham Imperial Silver Band on this ‘well-deserved honour’.