Van Morrison: Freedom of Belfast plans for singer

Van Morrison is originally from east Belfast

Plans to give singer Van Morrison the freedom of Belfast have moved a step closer.

A proposal to grant the honour to the 68-year-old passed without comment during a meeting of the city council.

Members are expected to approve the move during a specially-convened sitting later this month.

Speaking afterwards, the DUP's Gavin Robinson said the east Belfast musician had made an outstanding contribution to civic life.

He said: "Van Morrison has projected a positive image for the city of Belfast through difficult decades with outstanding musical creativity."

Mr Robinson nominated Morrison for the accolade - the highest a council can bestow.

In his nomination letter, Mr Robinson said: "I can think of no better individual, who poetically paints a majestic vision of the area I live, love and have the privilege to represent, to receive the honour of freedom.

"From humble beginnings, living just behind 'the bright side of the road', Van has rightly achieved international acclaim."

Morrison, known affectionately to fans as "Van the Man", has taken inspiration from his home city for a number of hits, including Cypress Avenue and Hyndford Street, which have sold millions worldwide.

His career began in the 1950s and he has enjoyed critical acclaim, winning six Grammy Awards, a Brit Award for outstanding contribution to music, and places in both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.