THE guardian of York's heritage has been honoured for his work by city leaders.

John Shannon, who retired as chairman of the Civic Trust last year after 38 years, was made a freeman of the city - the first since the Duchess of Kent in 1989.

The Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Irene Waudby, who conferred the honour, said: "Mr Shannon's impact on city life is almost unrivalled.

"He is a person whose work will be remembered for a great many years to come."

Updated: 11:40 Thursday, March 28, 2002