A proud Luther Blissett compared being awarded the Freedom of the Borough of Watford with winning the Golden Boot after he was bestowed with the rare honour this evening.

Friends, former teammates and community leaders joined councillors at a special meeting of Watford Borough Council inside Watford Colosseum for the investiture of one of the town’s favourite sons.

The 63-year-old was presented with the highest honour the council can bestow not only in recognition of an exceptional career with Watford which saw him become both the club’s highest ever goalscorer and appearance maker and gain international recognition, but also for his anti-racism campaigning and work in the community, particularly during the Covid pandemic.

Watford Observer:

Hailing “a momentous day in the life of our town” because of the rarity with which the honour is awarded, elected mayor of Watford Peter Taylor saluted what Luther had done for Watford during the pandemic among his many achievements.

Watford Observer:

He said: “I got to know Luther best during the Covid pandemic. We started doing online quizzes to raise money for the Covid community appeal. It showed what’s best about our town, it brought people together and raised money for a really good cause.

“Throughout the Covid period in particular Luther, ably supported by [his partner] Lauren, has done an amazing amount to raise money for the local community. The Covid appeal has already raised over £180,000, largely down to their endeavours.”

Watford Observer:

Luther was given a standing ovation and admitted: “This award, in terms of my life, is up there with the Golden Boot. I feel like I’ve just scored every goal in the Premier League and won the trophy.”

Among the guests was Rita Taylor, the widow of late Watford manager Graham Taylor, who was also granted the Freedom of the Borough.

Watford Observer:

Luther said his mum would be looking day and saying “that’s my boy” and paying tribute to his former boss he said: “To receive this honour as Graham Taylor did, to follow in the footsteps of that great man and manager who did so much for our town and our football club is simply a dream come true. I hope I can continue to make my mark for you all to the gold standard that Graham set.”

Watford Observer:

There was plenty of laughter at the end of the ceremony when the mayor presented Luther with a toy sheep as a light-hearted consolation for not being able to walk his sheep through the town, a privilege that is not afforded to those who are made a Freeman of Watford as some may believe.