Screenwriter Jimmy McGovern has been awarded the Freedom of Liverpool.
McGovern received the award for his contribution to the city’s film and TV industry alongside championing social justice during his 40-year career.
The 72-year-old’s credits include Brookside, Cracker, The Dockers, Priest and Time, as well as his groundbreaking docu-drama on the Hillsborough tragedy.
Tributes were paid from across the world of entertainment, sport and media, led by Liverpool FC legend Sir Kenny Dalglish and actor Stephen Graham.
Mayor Joanne Anderson also read out a note of thanks from Robbie Coltraine for McGovern’s creation of his character ‘Fitz’ in 1990s crime drama Cracker.
“It’s a city that’s very close to your heart and one who you’ve served brilliantly over the years – not just in your day-to-day job, but more especially for the people who were involved in Hillsborough,” said Sir Kenny.
“The way that you looked after them, the time and effort that you gave to them, the solace that you gave to them was absolutely fantastic.”