Journalist June Sampson honoured after more than four decades of service

An 80-year-old journalist has been granted the Freedom of Kingston after 40 years of service with the Surrey Comet newspaper.

June Sampson began her career on the Bristol Evening World where she met her husband Hilton Tims.

According to Grace McElwee, Kingston Council’s library and heritage service strategic manager said: “Without June Sampson’s articles, books, knowledge and insight our understanding of Kingston’s past would certainly be poorer.

"June has always strived to preserve and promote the best of Kingston and is considered to be a worthy recipient of this honour."

Surrey Comet editor David Rankin said: "This is a fantastic honour for an incredibly special woman, who has been a part of the fabric in Kingston for such a long time.

"June is battling to overcome the injuries that befell her. She and Hilton and the rest of the family have been incredibly touched by the support and well wishes they have had.

"The fact this was all in motion before June’s accident is testament to the work she has done within the borough she loves so much.

"While I’m hugely biased, of course, I cannot think of a more deserving person."

Sampson is the first woman to be awarded the Freedom of Kingston.

As well as the honour, Sampson will receive an illuminated scroll.