Penny Lancaster Honored with Freedom of London

received the Freedom of the City of London on Monday in recognition of her work as a police Special Constable and her charity work.

The model, 55, who has held the position since 2021, has worked to make the streets safer for women. 

She was also on duty for Queen Elizabeth’s funeral in September 2022 and ’ coronation in May 2023. 

Penny, who wore an elegant floral dress as she accepted the honour, was supported by her husband .  

Speaking at the ceremony, she said: 'I am truly humbled and thankful to receive the Freedom of the City of London. 

'It is a true privilege to join a list of notable recipients, and to be recognised by such a historic institution.'

She continued: 'I am delighted to accept this honour, which reflects not just my efforts but the dedication of everyone whom I have had the pleasure to work alongside.

'I look forward to supporting its traditions and contributing to the vibrant community that makes this capital so special.'

The Loose Women panelist signed up to become a special constable after taking part in Channel 4's Famous and Fighting Crime, where she was seen working with officers from Cambridgeshire Police.

In a 'terrifying' experience during filming, she was at one point confronted by a drug dealer who threatened to stab her. 

Despite the scare, however, the former model took so much from her stint in uniform that she successfully completed the application process for the part-time role in 2021.

Penny joined the City of London Police after undergoing training once lockdown restrictions were lifted.

She said at the time: 'I did a show called Famous and Fighting Crime where I was involved with the police.

'It was terrifying but I never felt more comfortable in a position and I felt like this is where I was supposed to be. I have signed up to be an officer.'

Penny explained: 'I had to sit exams, English and maths type of exams, and go for an interview with two officers. And then I did a fitness test which was the bleep test which was pretty tricky so I had to get fit for that and I passed.

'Then I had to do this massive vetting form going through all personal details of myself, my family, people I know and all that kind of thing.

'So now I'm waiting for the training to begin so I can serve the community. I'm going to become a police officer for the City Police in London.' 

The mother-of-two, who married Sir Rod in 2007, said the experience made her realise how underfunded the police are.