Penny Lancaster looked happier than ever as she celebrated one of the proudest moments of her life alongside husband Sir Rod Stewart after receiving the prestigious Freedom of the City of London honour.
The 55-year-old model and Loose Women star was all smiles as she left exclusive private members’ club Oswald’s in Mayfair hand-in-hand with Rod, 81, following a glamorous evening marking her huge achievement. Penny appeared completely overwhelmed with joy, giggling as she climbed into their waiting car while clutching a miniature stuffed sheep gifted to commemorate the historic honour.
The adorable toy carried a deeper meaning linked to one of the ancient privileges traditionally granted to Freemen of the City of London — the right to drive sheep across London Bridge without paying a toll. The symbolic tradition still lives on today through the annual Sheep Drive charity event, which has previously seen celebrities including Damian Lewis and the late Barbara Windsor take part.
Penny looked radiant in a black floral-patterned dress while Rod proudly stood by her side in a striking black-and-white striped suit inspired by Beetlejuice. The rocker appeared every inch the supportive husband as the couple soaked up the celebrations together.
Earlier in the day, Penny officially received the Freedom of the City of London at Guildhall in recognition of both her charity work and her dedication as a Special Constable with the City of London Police.
The honour places her among an extraordinary list of recipients including Nelson Mandela, Dame Judi Dench, King Charles and England’s victorious Women’s Euro 2022 squad.
During the ceremony, Penny emotionally 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.”
Penny has served as a Special Constable since 2021 and has worked tirelessly to help make London’s streets safer for women. She was also on duty during both Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in 2022 and King Charles’ coronation in 2023.
Her policing journey began after appearing on Channel 4’s Famous and Fighting Crime, where she worked alongside Cambridgeshire Police officers and faced terrifying moments — including being threatened by a drug dealer during filming.
Despite the frightening experience, Penny later admitted she had “never felt more comfortable in a position” and decided to formally join the police force.
Speaking previously about the demanding process, she revealed: “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.”
She added: “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.”
