Sir David Attenborough to be made freeman of Bristol

Sir David Attenborough is to be made a freeman of the city of Bristol

Sir David Attenborough is to be awarded the Freedom of the City of Bristol - the highest honour the city can bestow.

The award marks a close association between the naturalist and film-maker and the BBC's Natural History Unit based in Bristol.

Sir David's name will be added to the roll of honorary freemen following a ceremony at City Hall on 17 December.

"It's a pleasure to receive this honorary title from Bristol, a city I love to visit," said Sir David.

"To be made a freeman of the city is a great privilege and one I'm delighted to accept."

Sir David's career as a naturalist and broadcaster has spanned 60 years during which time he has established himself as arguably the world's leading natural history programme maker, with several landmark BBC series.