FREEDOM OF LONDON: Dan Tim O'Sullivan with his wife Sheila at the Guildhall in London last Thursday where the popular businessman was made a Freeman of the City of London.

There was a double-cause for celebration for one London-based Kerry family last weekend.

On Thursday last, the legendary Dan Tim O’Sullivan from Gleesk, Glenbeigh, was awarded the Freedom of the City of London.

The founder and chairperson of the Danny Sullivan Group was honoured for his contribution to life in London, both as an employer and a charity worker.

Danny moved to London in 1971 and as a 16-year-old worked for John Murphy & Sons before branching out and setting up the Danny Sullivan Group in 1986.

The business now employs 1,500 employees with many people from Kerry and is recognised as one of the most successful labour suppliers to the UK construction industry.

Danny received his award, which dates back to the 13th century at the Guildhall last Thursday (October 17).

It is awarded by the City of London to individuals who have made a significant impact on business and financial growth in the capital. The Freedom of the City of London can be gained through membership of a livery company or by direct application supported by a suitably qualified proposer and seconder. A limited number of Freemen are admitted each year by the Clerk to the Chamberlain of the City of London during a ceremony at Guildhall

On  Saturday night last, his son Timothy the Managing Director of the Danny Sullivan Group was awarded the ‘Young Kerry Person of the Year - Christy Kissane Legacy Award’ by the Kerry Association London.

“I am honoured to be recognised by the Kerry Association as the ‘Young Kerry Person of the Year 2019’, Tim told the Killarney Advertiser.

“My father won ‘Kerry Person of the Year’ in London 2004 and in Dublin in 2015, and I believe we are the first father and son duo to hold these awards.”

“As a family we have always admired and supported the work the Association has done to support the people of Kerry abroad. This award also resonates personally as it is the Christy Kissane Legacy award, who was a great friend of the family and of the Danny Sullivan Group. It was wonderful to receive my award from Christy’s daughter Linda Kissane and enjoy a night of celebrations with our families, friends and colleagues. I am so proud of this achievement and grateful to be recognised.”