NEWTON Abbot has recognised a true community champion by making her the town's second honorary freeman.

Former mayor Di Nicholls was presented with the title before family and friends at a special meeting of the town council on Wednesday evening.

Mrs Nicholls served as both town and district councillor for more than 30 years and can now be found in St Leonard's Tower each summer greeting visitors.

One of her greatest triumphs was securing the pedestrian bridge over the A380 after two men were killed while trying to cross the busy road.