Source: Daily_Mail
Manchester United and Wales star Ryan Giggs given freedom of Salford
Manchester United star Ryan Giggs will be honoured with the freedom of the city of Salford on Thursday. [LNB]The midfielder, who is the current PFA Player of the Year and BBC Sports Personality of the Year, will receive the honour at a ceremony in his adopted home town this afternoon. [LNB]United legend: Giggs has won 11 League titles[LNB]Giggs, 36, will join an illustrious list of previous recipients, including Nelson Mandela, LS Lowry and fellow Welshman David Lloyd George. [LNB]Although born in Cardiff and starring many times for Wales, Giggs has for many years lived in the Worsley area of Salford after signing for United as a schoolboy. [LNB] Giggs switched to the club while training with Manchester City after a personal visit to his home by Sir Alex Ferguson on his 14th birthday. [LNB]He has now played more times for the club and won more honours than any other player in United's illustrious history. [LNB]He is also the only player to have scored in every Premier League season after debuting against Everton in March 1991. [LNB]A formal presentation of the award will take place as part of a civic ceremony at The Lowry arts centre on Salford Quays. [LNB]Councillor John Warmisham said it was 'a privilege and a pleasure' to nominate Giggs. [LNB]'Ryan is a role model to young people and a proud ambassador of the city,' Mr Warmisham said. [LNB] Great 2009: Ryan Giggs was awarded the PFA Player of the Year and BBC Sports Personality of the Year[LNB] 'He is the ideal candidate for freedom of the city. He does tremendous work for Unicef in relation to children and other charities and has never forgotten his Salford roots.' [LNB]Mayor of Salford Councillor Roger Lightup added: 'I'm delighted we are able to honour one of our residents in this way. [LNB]'The freedom of the city recognises people who have made an exceptional contribution to our community and Ryan has certainly done this over a number of years.' [LNB]Citizens made freemen gain no real privileges today but they do receive a scroll to mark their status and the pride the city has in them. [LNB]The medieval term 'freeman' meant someone who was not the property of a feudal lord, but enjoyed privileges such as the right to earn money and own land.[LNB] So, are you sure you've got £60m to spend at Manchester United, Sir Alex?Veron sensation: United flop claims to have snubbed Manchester City The Morgan on Sport Award for the Football Personality of 2009: Ryan Giggs needs Manchester United votes to pip Burnley's Graham Alexander Giggs will play for Man United aged 37 after signing new deal at Old TraffordMANCHESTER UNITED FC
