Doncaster football icon Kevin Keegan to posthumously get freedom of Newcastle

Doncaster football icon Kevin Keegan is set to be posthumously awarded the Freedom of the City of Newcastle.

Newcastle City Council plans to award its highest honour to the Armthorpe-born who was a Newcastle United legend.

Members will vote on a motion at a special meeting of the council on Wednesday, November 4.

If approved, it will be the first time the council has awarded its highest civic honour posthumously.

Council leader Coun Colin Ferguson nominated Kevin in June, with Kevin and his family being informed the following month that he was to receive the honour in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the city.

Unfortunately, Kevin sadly passed away in July before the award could be heard in public and formally presented.

A Newcastle City Council spokesperson said: While it is a source of great sadness that he will not be able to receive the honour in person, the award will serve as a lasting tribute to a man who meant so much to the city and whose legacy will continue to inspire people for many years to come.”

As a player, Kevin joined Newcastle United in 1982, spending two seasons at the club where he scored 48 goals in 78 games, ending his career on a high as he helped secure promotion back to the First Division before retiring.

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He then returned to the Magpies as a manager in 1992 where he famously helped the club survive relegation to the then Third Division, and then winning the league title the following season as Newcastle United were promoted to the Premier League.

Coun Ferguson said: “Kevin will forever be a hero to Newcastle United supporters for his achievements and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

“The proposal to posthumously bestow the Honorary Freedom of Newcastle on Kevin is a fitting tribute to everything he gave to our city, and I hope council members will support it when they consider the motion.

In a statement, Kevin’s family said: “Kevin always shared his love for Newcastle United, Geordies and the city, captivating us with stories told with his infectious smile.

“Seeing the tributes brought those stories to life for Kevin’s grandchildren, showing them how deeply their grandfather was loved in return. It also allowed us a quiet moment to reflect on many fond memories of Kevin’s incredible career and the incomparable bond he shared with Newcastle.”

The Honorary Freedom of the City of Newcastle is the highest honour the city can bestow and is a civic recognition. If approved, Kevin will have his name inscribed in the wall of the Banqueting Hall at the Civic Centre, alongside the names of other recipients.