The Aardman team is said to be delighted by the honour

Lord Mayor Peter Abraham suggested the honour as Aardman won its fourth Academy Award for the film Wallace and Gromit: Curse of the Were-Rabbit.

"The prestige that Nick Park and his colleagues have brought to Bristol is immeasurable," said Mr Abraham.

The Aardman team is expected to be granted the honour after returning from the Cannes Film Festival in the summer.

The film featuring balding cheese-lover Wallace and his canine companion Gromit came out on top in the Academy Awards best animated feature film category.

Aardman had previously won Oscars for the animated films Creature Comforts in 1991, The Wrong Trousers in 1994 and A Close Shave in 1996.

Nick Park together with David Sproxton and Peter Lord started the company 30 years ago. It has always been based in the city.

Aardman spokesman Arthur Sheriff said the team was delighted with the accolade.

He said: "Nick Park, David Sproxton and Peter Lord are delighted to be offered the freedom of the city.

"It is wonderful that the mayor's office recognises the contribution that Aardman has made to put Bristol on the map."