In pictures: Van Morrison gets freedom of Belfast
- Published
Van Morrison has been conferred with the freedom of Belfast in his native city. He was presented with the honour at the Waterfront Hall, before performing a free concert. (photographs by Kelvin Boyes/Press Eye)
The musician was given a standing ovation by the crowd, most of whom were residents of Belfast who had received free tickets allocated by a lottery system.
Belfast Lord Mayor Máirtín Ó Muilleoir described the singer as the city's greatest son. "He united us in the past, he's united us tonight and he will unite us in the future," said the mayor.
Morrison was presented with a scroll and a gold ceremonial key by Mr Ó Muilleoir and his mayoral predecessor Gavin Robinson.
Since the freedom of the city was first awarded in 1898, 54 men, 16 women and nine organisations have been honoured.
Among those in the audience was Morrison's mother, Violet, while his daughter Shana was part of his backing group. She joined him on stage as he was presented with the honour.
Morrison was brought up in east Belfast, and the inspiration for some of his best-known songs came from local streets such as Cyprus Avenue.
Previous recipients of the freedom of Belfast include the Merchant Navy, Dame Mary Peters, the poet John Hewitt and former prime minister Winston Churchill.
- Published15 November 2013