MK Dons legend honoured with Freedom of the City

Dean Lewington appeared more than 700 times for MK Dons

Retired MK Dons captain Dean Lewington said being awarded the Freedom of the City was "a huge honour".

The 41-year-old was presented with the award in a ceremony at the Milton Keynes Civic Offices.

Lewington retired as captain at the end of the previous season after playing 917 games for the club across two decades.

He said: "It's a huge honour... I'm very privileged to have received it and very thankful."

The Freedom of the City holds no formal privileges

During his time at the club, he achieved three promotions and a league and cup double in 2007/08.

He is the club's all-time appearance record-holder and set the English Football League record for the most league appearances for a single club in 2023.

Lewington, who was told he would receive the award in May, now works as a development coach at MK Dons.

Pete Winkelman (right) attended the ceremony, he was given Freedom of the Borough in 2015

Milton Keynes City Council gives the Freedom of the City to individuals who are considered people of great distinction. It holds no formal privileges.

As Milton Keynes was only granted city status in 2022, the only other recipient has been Lionesses' Captain, Leah Williamson.

Three people had received Freedom of the Borough before that, including former Dons chairman Pete Winkelman in 2015.

Lewington said: "The council have been great, the mayor has been lovely, it's been a nice evening."