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Last Updated: Thursday, 1 September 2005, 07:44 GMT 08:44 UK
Flintoff may be given city honour
Andrew Flintoff
Only 22 people received the honour last century
Andrew Flintoff could become the first person to be awarded the Freedom of the City of Preston this century.

The all-rounder would be honoured for his "services and accomplishments in the field of cricket" if the city council approves the plans on Thursday.

Only 22 people were given the honour in the last century, including footballer Sir Tom Finney in 1979 and animator Nick Park in 1997.

Mayor Bikhu Patel said Flintoff is an excellent ambassador and role model.

England cricket captain Michael Vaughan has called the 27-year-old, nicknamed Freddie, a sporting hero.

Man of match

He was named Man of the Match after England's fourth Test victory over Australia at Trent Bridge.

The Prestonian was a pupil at Greenland County Primary School and Ribbleton High School, now called City of Preston High.

The honour has no real privileges and is regarded as an award to men or women of note who have lived or worked in the city.

Freemen take precedence on ceremonial occasions, such as Remembrance Sunday, when they are allowed to walk ahead of councillors in processions.

In the 1800s freemen were given ancient privileges and were allowed to herd their sheep on Moor Park.


SEE ALSO:
Freddie could be workers' toast
10 Aug 05 |  Lancashire
Lancs hand Flintoff benefit year
10 Aug 05 |  Cricket
Flintoff can be a great - Botham
09 Aug 05 |  Ashes 2005


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