PLANS to bestow the freedom of the city on three well-known York figures have moved a step closer.
Members of the City of York Council's Approvals Committee last night agreed that actress Dame Judi Dench, composer John Barry and the retired chairman of York Civic Trust, John Shannon, should become the city's first honorary freemen of the 21st century.
The final decision will be made at a meeting of the full City of York Council on November 13 and from there civic procedures can be put in motion for the honours to be bestowed.
Dame Judi and Mr Barry, both York-born stars who have found international success during their careers, were nominated by Peter Stanhope, from Skelton, who was backed by his ward councillor, Coun Mark Waudby.
Mr Shannon, who stepped down from his chairman's post after more than 30 years, was nominated by the Gild of Freemen.
Coun Waudby welcomed the latest development and said that all three were deserving of the honour.
Updated: 10:51 Wednesday, October 17, 2001
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