Chris Kamara 'blown away' after being awarded Freedom of Wakefield

Footballing legend Chris Kamara has been awarded the Freedom of the City honour in Wakefield following his services to the city and to charity.

The former professional football player played for teams like Leeds United, Sheffield United, Middlesbrough and Bradford City throughout his long career. Outside of Yorkshire, he also played for Portsmouth, Swindon Town, Stoke City, Luton Town and Brentford.

After, he became a much-loved presenter for Sky Sports between 1998 and 2022. He often appeared as a presenter on Soccer Saturday throughout his time with the broadcaster.

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Now, Chris Kamara has been given the Freedom of the City honour by the Mayor of Wakefield, Councillor Josie Pritchard, in a ceremony followed by a private reception. Chris Kamara said: "I am absolutely delighted to have been awarded Freedom of the City of Wakefield. It’s been an absolutely unbelievable day!

"I have lived in Wakefield longer than anywhere else. The people and the places are amazing, and it will always be our home. I’m blown away by it, this honour really means the world to me."

Chris has been honoured for his work for charity and he has raised millions for a number of groups over the years. This includes Show Racism the Red Card and as an ambassador for Marie Curie.

He has also worked to raise awareness for apraxia after he was diagnosed with the condition in 2022. In the 2023 New Years Honours list, he was appointed an MBE, for his services to football, anti-racism and charity.

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Councillor Pritchard said: "Chris is a local and national legend and an inspiration to so many people. We are absolutely delighted to have given him the highest honour we can bestow – Freedom of the City.

"He has been a massive supporter of many charities, raising millions and making a difference to the lives of many. Locally, he is an active supporter of Wakefield Hospice, Andy’s Man Club and Pinderfields Hospital, to name but a few."

A Freedom of the City award is the highest honour Wakefield Council can give to an individual or organisation. It is a ceremonial award for their contribution to the city.

Others given the award previously includes Sir Rodney Walker, former chairman of the Rugby Football League, Neil Fox MBE and The 3rd Battalion the Rifles Regiment.

Councillor Denise Jeffery, the leader of Wakefield Council, said: "Chris is a true ambassador of our city and we’re delighted to award him this honour today. His contribution to charity and our city really is - unbelievable."