Steve Kirk: 'Emotional' Derby pub landlord to get Freedom of the City

Steve Kirk said he was "honoured" to receive the title in the civic mayor's parlour

A pub landlord who has raised more than £120,000 for charity will be awarded the Freedom of Derby.

Steve Kirk, who has run The Neptune in Osmaston Road for 27 years, will be given the city's highest civic honour due to his "exceptional" fundraising efforts.

On Monday, Derby City Council passed a motion to arrange a civic reception for a later date.

Mr Kirk told the BBC: "I'm emotional about it, I'm very proud."

Mr Kirk has run The Neptune in Osmaston Road for 27 years

Previous recipients include former Derby County manager Brian Clough, Olympic gold medallist swimmer Adam Peaty and world boxing champion Sandy Ryan.

During his time as the landlord, Mr Kirk has raised more money for the Royal British Legion's poppy appeal than any other pub in the UK, the council said.

Over 15 years, the landlord has volunteered with many organisations and coordinated numerous charity fundraisers. The meeting heard he once rowed 15 miles between Shardlow and Willington in Derbyshire.

During the 27 years he has worked behind the bar, councillors also recognised his work opening the pub on Christmas Day by serving hot meals to people in need.

Mr Kirk was praised for his "exceptional" fundraising efforts

Speaking to BBC Radio Derby in the mayor's parlour, Mr Kirk said: "I love it that we have been recognised for all the hard work we do with the charities. This is not just for me; it's for the whole team.

"It's incredible... they don't [give it to people like me], we don't get this; it's for your sportspeople - but this makes it all the more special."

The publican added he had been offered some oxen to walk around the city centre once he received his title, but Mr Kirk said he would not be doing that.

A big Derby County fan, Mr Kirk also said he was looking forward to his own ceremony and hopes to return to the town hall for a second time to celebrate the Rams's promotion to the Championship - if they make it.