Chris Kamara: Former footballer awarded freedom of Wakefield

Former footballer turned pundit Chris Kamara has been awarded the freedom of Wakefield.

Kamara, who played for Leeds United, Sheffield United and Bradford City along with six other English clubs, has been recognised both for his services to charity and the West Yorkshire city.

The 66-year-old ex-midfielder, who is an ambassador for the Marie Curie charity, moved to Wakefield in 1990.

He said the "amazing" award "means everything to me and my family".

Referencing his catchphrase from his work with Sky TV, Kamara, originally from Middlesbrough, said: "I should say it's unbelievable.

"I couldn't have dreamt in a million years when I signed for Leeds 34 years ago that 34 years later I would be getting the freedom of Wakefield - it truly is remarkable."

The freedom of the city is the highest honour Wakefield Council can give to an individual or organisation, a spokesperson for the local authority said.

Council leader Denise Jeffrey described Kamara as a "remarkable man" and said he was "fully deserving" of the honour.

"He puts a smile on everyone's face and makes a difference to Wakefield," she said.

Kamara was given the award by Wakefield mayor Josie Pritchard at a civic ceremony on Wednesday.

Afterwards, he joked that he would use his new privilege to "bring my sheep to the town hall".

Charities he has supported locally include Wakefield Hospice, Andy's Man Club and Pinderfields Hospital.

The former Bradford and Stoke manager, who had a 20-year playing career, has also raised awareness of apraxia after being diagnosed with the condition in 2022.

He was appointed MBE in the 2023 New Year Honours list for services to football, anti-racism and charity.

After retiring from football Kamara worked as a pundit on Soccer Saturday between 1999 and 2022.

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