THE Trinity Assize of Altrincham Court Leet held at Altrincham Town Hall was attended by the Mayor of Trafford, Councillor John Holden and the Bishop of Stockport and former Hale vicar, the Right Rev Libby Lane.

After prayers by Burgess Rev Jerry Sutton and presentations by officers, Charlie Pearson, from Hale, was made a freeman of the borough of Altrincham.

Bishop Libby and three others were presented with Silver Lion awards by the provost, Denise Laver.

The other three included two gentleman’s hairdressers – Andreas Yerolemou, who, after 56 years, still works at Andreas in Shaws Road, Altrincham and Michael Bowman who recently retired from Perfects in Kingsway after 52 years in the trade.

Jean Chapman, a cake maker at Hills Bakery in Hale for over 60 years, also received a certificate.

Bishop Libby said: “What was really lovely was to receive an honour alongside people who will never get in the headlines but who contribute to the life and economy of our area.

“It has been remarkable how many people want to speak to me. They include those who have had no contact with the church previously but are so excited about my appointment that they come and talk on buses, trains, shops and on holiday even when I’m not wearing my collar.”

Charlie Pearson was delighted to become a freeman of Altrincham. Last year he cycled to Berlin with others raising almost £5,000 for the Brain and Spine Foundation.

Andreas, who had seven relatives present including two from Cyprus said: "My customers have become friends.”

Michael Bowman, who was once apprenticed to Andreas, returned from Conway so they could receive their certificates together.

Jean Chapman said: “As long as my boss, Janet Hill, is happy, I’ll carry on working until I can no longer cycle there.”