28 March 2013 Last updated at 05:50 ET <\/p>\n
Olympic gold medallist Jessica Ennis has been officially granted the freedom of her home city of Sheffield. <\/p>\n
The 27-year-old heptathlete was honoured at a ceremony on Wednesday hosted by Lord Mayor John Campbell. <\/p>\n
She was watched by family, friends and civic dignitaries as she signed the scroll granting her the honour. <\/p>\n
Ennis said: \"To become a freeman of Sheffield is the biggest civic honour anyone can get and I'm so proud to receive it.\" <\/p>\n
She joins other sporting heroes including fellow athlete Lord Coe and cricketer Michael Vaughan as Sheffield freemen. <\/p>\n
Ennis said: \"Winning the Olympics in Britain has exceeded everything I could have ever wished for and the reception I have received from my home city has been unbelievable. <\/p>\n
\"I have to say a big thank you to the people of Sheffield who have believed in me and backed me over the years.\" <\/p>\n
Mr Campbell said: \"Becoming a freeman of Sheffield is the highest civic honour we can display and Jessica truly deserves it. <\/p>\n
\"Jessica is an amazing sportswoman, with incredible success and worldwide appeal. <\/p>\n
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