Former footballer awarded freedom of the city

Peter Isaac, left, accepts his award from the Mayor of Hereford Dan Powell

A former Hereford United footballer and caretaker manager has been awarded honorary freedom of the city.

Peter Isaac was presented with the honour by Mayor of Hereford Dan Powell at a ceremony held on Tuesday.

The 90-year-old clocked up 353 appearances for the Bulls across eight seasons between 1960 and 1968.

In 1970, Isaac returned to Edgar Street and would go on to complete an additional 22 seasons as coach, physiotherapist, trainer and caretaker-manager and served under 13 different managers.

Peter Hill, who was club chairman until 1998, described Isaac as a "wonderful ambassador" for Hereford United.

In comments made after a benefit match against Manchester United in 1992, he said: "Peter Isaac had a unique record of service to Hereford in particular and football in general.

"There are few people in the country from the Premier League to Sunday soccer who could equal the years of dedication he gave to the game over three decades."

He added: "He was willing to turn his hand to anything to help the club and always displayed loyalty, determination, dedication and sportsmanship.

"He was a wonderful ambassador and well deserved the tribute of the benefit match against Manchester United, which marked 30 years of outstanding service."

Mr Isaac received the award at Hereford City Council. The title of "Honorary Freeman" is the highest a city council can bestow.