Skinner to get Black Country honour

Frank Skinner is to be granted the freedom of his home borough.

Sandwell Borough Council in the West Midlands is expected to approve the honour on Tuesday as part of its 30th anniversary celebrations.

Actress Julie Walters and former West Bromwich Albion footballer Cyrille Regis are also in line for the accolade, which would be presented in March.

Council leader Bill Thomas said: "We want to mark the anniversary as best we can.

"Sandwell has only three other freemen at the moment. It is not an honour which is given out lightly."

Published: 3 Jan 2004