16 September 2013 Last updated at 14:08 ET <\/p>\n
World-famous singer Van Morrison has been awarded the freedom of Belfast. <\/p>\n
The move was unanimously agreed after a special meeting of Belfast City Council on Monday. <\/p>\n
A motion by the DUP's Gavin Robinson recognised the extraordinary contribution the 68-year-old singer, known affectionately to fans as \"Van the Man\", has made to the city. <\/p>\n
He is the first recipient of the honour since Dame Mary Peters. <\/p>\n
Other recipients since 1898 include Sir Edward Carson. <\/p>\n
It is not yet known how the honour will be marked, but the council may stage a concert rather than a formal ceremony. <\/p>\n
Mr Morrison was brought up in east Belfast. <\/p>\n
He has taken inspiration from streets in his home city for a number of songs, including Cyprus Avenue and Hyndford Street. <\/p>\n
His career began in the 1950s and he has enjoyed critical acclaim, winning six Grammy Awards, a Brit Award for outstanding contribution to music, and places in both the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters' Hall of Fame. <\/p>\n
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Read the original: 16 September 2013 Last updated at 14:08 ET World-famous singer Van Morrison has been awarded the freedom of Belfast. The move was unanimously agreed after a special meeting of Belfast City Council on Monday. A motion by the DUP's Gavin Robinson recognised the extraordinary contribution the 68-year-old singer, known affectionately to fans as \"Van the Man\", has made to the city Continue reading
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