International pop celebrity Bonnie Tyler has become a Freeman of Neath Port Talbot following a ceremony on Friday, March 11th.
Skewen born Bonnie, is one of rock and roll’s most popular artistes. She began her singing career in 1970, forming her own band in 1972 and winning her first recording contract with RCA records in 1975.
‘Lost in France’ gave her a top ten hit and ‘It’s a Heartache’ led her to international stardom. She is best known for her 1982 worldwide hit ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’.
“Being granted the Freedom of the County Borough is the highest honour to be bestowed on any individual,” said Council Leader, Ali Thomas.
Bonnie was nominated for her lifelong worldwide contribution in the field of entertainment and is a well known ambassador for Neath Port Talbot.
She is only the second woman to be honoured following in the footsteps of veteran volunteer Margaret Thorne.
Bonnie Tyler said: “Who would have thought that a simple girl from a simple family in Skewen would be honoured like this. It’s anything but heartache and I hope I can live up to the honour and trust placed in me today.”
Council Leader Ali Thomas added: “Bonnie has consistently been one of Britain’s top female artists achieving international success for 35 years. I knew her father well having worked in the same mine as him and he was a proper gentleman.”
