Lenny Henry given Freedom of the City of London

Sir Lenny Henry has been given the Freedom of the City of London in recognition of his contribution to the entertainment industry and charitable fundraising.

The 66-year-old actor and comedian attended his ceremony at Guildhall on Thursday joined by family and friends, after being nominated by Lord Mayor Alastair King.

Sir Lenny, who has been performing for 50 years, co-founded Comic Relief and was awarded a knighthood in 2015 for services to drama and charity.

"I am very proud that the Freedom recognises my work on Comic Relief, which has raised over £1bn and had a positive impact on so many people's lives," Sir Lenny said.

"Coming from people who are of African origin, the idea of being made a free man resonates within me like a bass string that's been thrummed.

"I understand what that means. This idea of freedom, this idea of being in a diverse city, it means something and I don't take that lightly."

"Apparently I do get to drive sheep across one of the bridges," he added.

Sir Lenny, who was born in Dudley in the West Midlands, was made a fellow of the Royal Television Society in 2016, and received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the National Television Awards in 2022. He is also a published author.

Lord Mayor of London Alastair King said: "There are few entertainers around today who are as popular and instantly recognisable as Sir Lenny, and it is an absolute pleasure to support his nomination.

"Throughout his career, Sir Lenny has used his many talents to shine a spotlight on important issues like racial inequality and poverty, helping to change countless lives through Comic Relief. His Freedom is richly deserved."

The Freedom of the City is believed to have begun in 1237 and enabled recipients to carry out their trade.

It is also used as a way to pay tribute to an individual's outstanding contribution to London or public life.

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