The celebrated restaurateur, with a string of fine dining establishments to his name became an Honorary Freeman of Newcastle – the highest honour that the city can bestow.
He received the prestigious accolade in recognition of his contribution to the restaurant scene in Newcastle spanning 36 years starting with 21 Queen Street.
Since then, he has opened a string of other popular restaurants including Café 21, St Vincent, The Broad Chare and Porterhouse Butcher and Grill to name just a few.
He’s been honoured with a series of top culinary awards including Michelin and Egon Ronay stars and an MBE for services to the hospitality industry.
His 21 Hospitality Group employs 186 staff, but he’s employed more than 5,000 over the years – some of whom have gone on to become top chefs in exclusive restaurants spanning the globe from New York to Australia. He was born in Lemington.
The Lord of Mayor of Newcastle Cllr Henry Gallagher presented a framed scroll to Mr Laybourne in front of an audience of his family and friends in a ceremony at the Civic Centre.
Cllr Gallagher said: “Terry Laybourne has contributed enormously to the hospitality industry, the culture and the economy of Newcastle. His restaurants have become a by-word for excellence in fine dining and we are proud to call him one of our own.
“Over the years he has trained up many young people who have gone on to become top chefs all over the world so it’s fair to say his eye for excellence has spanned the globe.
“He is a force of nature employing more than 5,000 and has done more than anyone to nurture young talent. It is with great honour that we bestow upon him the city’s highest honour the Freedom of Newcastle upon Tyne.”
Mr Laybourne said: “It’s lovely to be recognised for having made a difference, and that’s my overriding feeling. However, I am, and always have been, little more than a cog in the wheel.
“I’d suggest that I’m the architect, the conductor maybe, who didn’t necessarily build anything. The execution is down to my wonderful staff and the teams of talented people I’ve had around me over the years. I’d like to recognise those people, and I would like them to know that this honour is as much about them as it is about me. The reality is that they make me look good.
“Our industry has a reputation for the transience of its workforce, and yet there are people I work with now who’ve been by my side for many, many years. Being part of 21 Hospitality Group is about being part of an organisation where loyalty goes both ways and where training and career development are a key focus.
“I’m very proud to have played a small part in bringing Newcastle’s hospitality sector to the fore.”
Mr Laybourne also acknowledged his close partnership with Nick Shottel, Operations Director at 21 Hospitality Group.
“I’ve been hugely fortunate to have Nick alongside me as my right-hand man. And, of course, without the ongoing support of our customers, there would be no restaurants. Some of those people have been with us from day one, and I’m hugely grateful that they’re still there today.”
Mr Laybourne’s name has also been carved into the sandstone wall of the Banqueting Hall at the Civic Centre alongside other honorary Freemen including Sir Bobby Robson and Nelson Mandela.
His nomination was proposed by Cllr Karen Robinson and seconded by Cllr Wendy Taylor.