The ‘inspirational’ Bishop of Newcastle is in line to be awarded the Freedom of the City.
The Right Revd Christine Hardman has been put forward for the top civic honour, after announcing plans to step down from her role later this year.
If approved by Newcastle City Council next week, she would follow former city councillor George Allison and ex-Newcastle United chairman Freddy Shepherd among the award's recent recipients.
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Bishop Christine, who recently turned 70, has served as Bishop of Newcastle for six years and is due to retire at the end of November.
At a council meeting next Wednesday, the city’s elected representatives will be asked to confer the Freedom on her in recognition of her “enormous impact on the life of the city and its residents”.
The nomination for Freedom of the City status, proposed by Labour council leader Nick Forbes and seconded by Lib Dem opposition leader Nick Cott, states: “In the most difficult and challenging times, Bishop Christine has provided spiritual guidance and comfort to many.
“She has delivered real improvements that have made people’s lives better and is a voice for those often left unheard and a figure of true inspiration.”
Upon announcing her retirement earlier this month, Bishop Christine said that the “depth of welcome and relationships in this region has been inspirational and encouraging”.
She added: “We have all been called to minister together, lay and ordained, at a time of extraordinary challenge, and I am very proud of the way in which our clergy and laity have responded to this. I give thanks for all of you. It has been a privilege to be your Bishop.
“My husband Roger and I have been incredibly blessed by the generosity and support that has been shown to both of us in our time in Newcastle Diocese. Its people, history, and landscape have an enduring place in our hearts, and we will always treasure the years we have spent here.”
The Freedom of the City is an honorary title decreed on individuals or groups who have made important contributions to Newcastle and is the highest honour that the city council can bestow.
Other previous recipients include Sir Brendan Foster, Hari Shukla, Sir Bobby Robson and Greggs.
A Newcastle City Council spokesperson said: “A nomination has been received to bestow the Freedom of the City upon Bishop Christine Hardman, the Bishop of Newcastle.
“The nomination was put forward by Coun Nick Forbes, Leader of the Council, and seconded by Coun Nick Cott, Leader of the Opposition, in recognition of Bishop Christine’s significant contribution to the city during her six years as bishop.
“On Wednesday September 1, at a special meeting of the city council, members will be asked to accept this nomination. Should members approve the request, a formal ceremony will be arranged for a later date.”
