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08/05/2013
Freedom Of City For Mary Peters
Northern Ireland's best-known Olympian, Dame Mary Peters, is to be given the 'Freedom of the City' at a ceremony in Belfast City Hall this evening.
Dame Mary was in the city centre this morning with hundreds of schoolchildren to celebrate the announcement at a showcase event.
The 'Freedom of the City' ceremony will take place at a gala dinner in City Hall tonight.
Lord Mayor Alderman Gavin Robinson said: "It is great to see City Hall play host to this very special sporting event so that people of all ages can join in Dame Mary’s 'big day'.
"The Freedom of the City is a well deserved accolade for one of our best known Olympians who has a special place in the hearts of people across all parts of Belfast and beyond.
"Long since that iconic moment when she took Gold in the 1972 Munich Games, our very own 'golden girl' has immersed herself in the promotion of sport and, in particular, the mentoring of our young people and those from all walks of life in the wider community."
At the showcase event this morning, Dame Mary spoke of her "joy and pride" at receiving the honour.
"Northern Ireland and Belfast hold a very special place in my heart," she said.
"I remember with great pride how, when I returned from Munich back in 1972 and showed my medal to the crowds at the front of Belfast City Hall, I couldn't believe the reaction of the people who came out onto the streets to cheer me.
"Today I am humbled by this honour being bestowed on me, and my heartfelt gratitude goes to Belfast City Council and each and every one of the residents of Belfast."
(IT/CD)
Dame Mary was in the city centre this morning with hundreds of schoolchildren to celebrate the announcement at a showcase event.
The 'Freedom of the City' ceremony will take place at a gala dinner in City Hall tonight.
Lord Mayor Alderman Gavin Robinson said: "It is great to see City Hall play host to this very special sporting event so that people of all ages can join in Dame Mary’s 'big day'.
"The Freedom of the City is a well deserved accolade for one of our best known Olympians who has a special place in the hearts of people across all parts of Belfast and beyond.
"Long since that iconic moment when she took Gold in the 1972 Munich Games, our very own 'golden girl' has immersed herself in the promotion of sport and, in particular, the mentoring of our young people and those from all walks of life in the wider community."
At the showcase event this morning, Dame Mary spoke of her "joy and pride" at receiving the honour.
"Northern Ireland and Belfast hold a very special place in my heart," she said.
"I remember with great pride how, when I returned from Munich back in 1972 and showed my medal to the crowds at the front of Belfast City Hall, I couldn't believe the reaction of the people who came out onto the streets to cheer me.
"Today I am humbled by this honour being bestowed on me, and my heartfelt gratitude goes to Belfast City Council and each and every one of the residents of Belfast."
(IT/CD)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
