Town freedom for football legend

Bobby Moncur in his heyday

Newcastle United legend Bobby Moncur is to be awarded the greatest honour Gateshead can bestow.

The 63-year-old, who lives in Gateshead and was the last Newcastle captain to bring any silverware to the club, is to be made a Freeman of the Borough.

Others who share the honour include Olympic triple jumper Jonathan Edwards and television presenter Mike Neville and former council leader George Gill.

They will all receive a framed scroll at a ceremony in the new year.

Mr Moncur has also captained Sunderland and Scotland.

Council leader Mick Henry said: "I am pleased the council has agreed to bestow this very special honour on Bobby Moncur.

"Not only has he been a Gateshead resident of many years, he is also a role model for sport and football in general, and has set an amazing example to people from all walks of life by continuing with his charity work through his own battle with cancer."