by Gráinne Connolly
Dr Rory Best OBE is to be officially awarded the Freedom of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough in Armagh next month.
The Ulster, Ireland and Lions rugby star will be conferred with the honour at a ceremony in the Palace Demense on Saturday September 8th, by the Lord Mayor, Alderman and Councillors of the Borough.
Mr Best will be the second ever to receive the award, following the unanimous decision at a council meeting late last year.
According to the local council, the honour, which historically included the right to drive sheep unimpeded through the town, is a symbolic gesture to recognise those who have contributed significantly to the borough.