THE HIGHEST honour York can offer should be bestowed upon two James Bond heroes, a York councillor is to urge.

Coun Mark Waudby is to ask York's leaders to back his call to give the Freedom of the City to actress Dame Judi Dench and the composer John Barry.

He will argue that the two should be honoured by their home city for their achievements.

Oscar-winning actress Dame Judi was the first woman to play 007's boss, M.

And John Barry wrote theme music for 12 out of the 19 James Bond films, as well as scores for Midnight Cowboy and Dances With Wolves.

Coun Waudby said: "I feel that after all these years of work and the great amount of pleasure they have both given to so many people, they should be honoured by their home city."

A call for Mr Barry to be given the freedom of the city was made last year by the composer's friend Peter Stanhope, from Skelton.

He gained support from dozens of city residents.

Nick Wharton, Civic Secretary for the Lord Mayor, said: "No decision has yet been made about that, but it will be in the near future."

Updated: 10:33 Friday, April 13, 2001