"BETTER than a knighthood" was pantomime dame Berwick Kaler's verdict on being made an Honorary Freeman of his adopted city at a special ceremony in York today.
Berwick, who has played to packed houses at York Theatre Royal for more than 25 years, was handed a special scroll by the Lord Mayor, Coun Charles Hall.
"I just think it's the most stunning thing that's ever happened to me," he said.
"For a Wearsider, a foreigner, it's better than a knighthood.
"Really I'm getting it just for giving people a laugh. I'm a little bit uncomfortable for getting this reward just for doing what I do, but it's the biggest honour I could ever receive."
Town Crier John Redpath, who attended the ceremony, said: "He's the best man that ever lived.
"He's more popular than Father Christmas here in York, and it's a greater honour to introduce him than royalty or Tony Blair."
Updated: 14:28 Tuesday, July 22, 2003
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