A local sportstar has been honoured with the Freedom of the City of Derby Award for her outstanding achievements in the world of boxing.
Sandy Ryan, 30, is a world boxing champion who received the civic honour at a ceremonial event hosted at Derby’s Council House on Monday March 25, 2024.
She was presented with the honour by Councillor Alan Graves, Mayor of the City of Derby, Councillor Baggy Shanker, Leader of Derby City Council, and Councillor Ajit Atwal.
The honour, which is the highest award a local authority can give to a citizen, follows Sandy retaining her world champion status after defeating Terri Harper in Sheffield on Saturday (March 23).
Read more: What's On in Derby?
Sandy's professional boxing record is an impressive seven wins, one draw and one loss.
The historic ceremony means Sandy joins the ranks of Olympic gold medallist swimmer Adam Peaty, Derby County’s championship winning manager Brian Clough, and the Rams’ 1946 FA Cup winning hero Reg Harrison, who were all recipients of the award.
Speaking to Derby World after the ceremony, Sandy said: “It is amazing, I am so grateful, and privileged to get this award, to have my hometown Derby backing me, giving me this amazing award."
When asked about putting Derby on the map, Sandy said: “It means everything, because of where I come from.
"I’ve had a hard upbringing. For me to get to this point, I just want to prove and show the next generation and anyone who wants to be successful in life, from Derby, that they can do it.”
It was a busy day for Sandy who was off for a celebratory meal at a Derby restaurant as a treat.
She said: “I’m visiting Tarka Restaurant later, it’s my 'go-to' after every fight, I love it there.
“People are great and food is good. I like the garlic chicken, rice, cheese garlic naan!”
Here are some photos from the event.
1. Sandy Ryan
Boxing star Sandy Ryan is celebrating another win - this time outside the ring and in Derby City Council House | Image Ria Ghei | Ria Ghei Photo: Ria Ghei
2. Sandy Ryan is the first woman to be awarded the Freedom of the City of Derby
Sandy Ryan's arrival at the awards ceremony was a celebratory event | Ria Ghei Photo: Ria Ghei`
3. Sandy Ryan was nominated for the award last year
Sandy Ryan took to the podium to give an inspirational speech at the ceremony | Ria Ghei Photo: Ria Ghei
4. Councillor Alan Graves, Mayor of the City of Derby presented the award to Sandy Ryan
A delighted Sandy was beaming, her hard work and critically acclaimed boxing credentials being celebrated at the event | Ria Ghei Photo: Ria Ghei