TWO councillors are pushing for a second football legend to be made a freeman of the borough of Redcar and Cleveland.

The late Middlesbrough and England football legend Wilf Mannion, and Redcar MP Mo Mowlam are the only two to have received the honour so far.

But borough councillors Steve Kay and Bruce MacKenzie say the honour should go to another footballing legend, 80-year-old George Hardwick.

Last year, the two Lingdale councillors were angry that the council would only "receive" a letter from the parish council calling for the honour to be bestowed on "Gentleman George".

They said the area was being marginalised, and it was a snub to Mr Hardwick and the people of Lingdale.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council is asking residents to nominate people who they would like to see awarded with the freedom of the borough.

In the summer edition of the council's River Coast and Country magazine, it explains that a judging panel of councillors will make the decision later in the year.

It will be looking for people who can show they have made an outstanding contribution to life in Redcar and Cleveland, whether they are well-known figures or an unsung heroes.

Coun Kay said: "Following the sad death of Wilf Mannion, it is fitting that the other Middlesbrough and England legend from our borough, George Hardwick, should be granted our highest accolade.

"Having captained not only the Boro and England, but also Great Britain, Gentleman George certainly deserves it."

Coun MacKenzie said: "Coun Kay and I represent Lingdale, and George is a Lingdale lad. He and I attended the same school.

"Since retiring from football, George has worked tirelessly for young people and charitable causes.

"George has long been an ambassador for the whole of Redcar and Cleveland.

"Coun Kay and I urge all residents of Redcar and Cleveland to place the name of George Hardwick on the nomination paper in River Coast and Country and return it to Redcar and Cleveland Town Hall."

Dave Walsh, leader of Redcar and Cleveland council, said: "Obviously George Hardwick's nomination will be received and I am sure there will be others. It means the council has a wide selection to choose from people representing all the communities.