RUGBY World Cup hero Jonny Wilkinson will be presented with the Freedom of Newcastle at a ceremony later this month.
Wilkinson, who was awarded an OBE in the New Year's Honours list, will receive the honorary title from the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Councillor Margaret Carter, for his services to sport and the city.
The ceremony will take place at the city's Civic Centre, at 11.30am on Friday, February 27.
The Newcastle Falcons fly-half will join a prestigious role of honour alongside other sporting greats, including Newcastle United captain Alan Shearer and Olympic gold medallist Jonathan Edwards.
He will receive the framed scroll at the ceremony in front of an audience including family, friends and civic dignitaries.
His name will later be chiselled on to the wall of the Banqueting Hall, joining 84 previous recipients including Nelson Mandela, Jimmy Carter and Bob Geldof.
Music for the ceremony will be provided by the Young Musicians to the Lord Mayor - XYZ - who have composed a piece for the occasion.
Coun Carter said: "Jonny has done so much to promote this region on a world stage, it is only fitting that he receives this accolade.
"His sporting prowess is an inspiration to budding sports people."
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