Posthumous city honour for Wilson

Wilson's partner Yvette Livesay and his children were at the unveiling

A tribute to late broadcaster Anthony Wilson's cultural contribution to Manchester has been unveiled.

His name has been etched on to the city roll of honour at Manchester Town Hall - usually reserved for those given freedom of the city.

It is the first time anyone from the area has been recognised in this way posthumously, the council said.

Wilson's name appears alongside the last person given the freedom of the city - Sir Alex Ferguson in 1999.

It was revealed on Wednesday that Sir Bobby Charlton and the Manchester-based British Olympic cycling team would also be given freedom of the city at a ceremony next year.

In total, the status has been given to 75 individuals and six Army regiments.

Mr Wilson died in August 2007 after battling cancer. He was 57.

Tony Wilson gave a lot to Manchester and was always fiercely proud of his northern roots and the talent that came out of our city Sir Richard Leese, Council leader

The inscription - which reads: "Anthony H Wilson. Broadcaster and cultural catalyst. 10 October 2007" - was unveiled by councillors on Wednesday.

Leader of the Council, Sir Richard Leese, said the former record label boss, broadcaster and regeneration consultant had lifted the profile of Manchester across the world.

"Tony Wilson gave a lot to Manchester and was always fiercely proud of his northern roots and the talent that came out of our city.

"Unwittingly or otherwise, for more than two decades he played a key role in helping shape the city's cultural and creative regeneration and raising the profile of Manchester on the world stage.

"He was also a big supporter of numerous arts and charitable organisations across Greater Manchester and was, of course, the inspiration to a generation of young musicians who put Manchester centre stage in the world of music."

Sir Richard said the inscription would ensure he was not forgotten and that future generations would continue to remember him.