Billy Connolly in line for Freedom of Glasgow award

Comedian Billy Connolly has been nominated to receive the Freedom of the City of Glasgow.

Lord Provost Bob Winter is to ask the council to bestow the honour in recognition of his contribution to comedy, film, music and charity work.

Mr Winter said Connolly, known as the 'Big Yin', was arguably the world's best-known Glaswegian.

A motion to confer the award will be submitted to the council 24 June, where it is expected to be ratified.

The Lord Provost said: "Billy has been a great ambassador for the city.

"The 'Big Yin' as he is affectionately known has moved seamlessly from folk music to comedy and acting.

He has shown the world the unique humour, generosity and resilience of Glaswegians

"A true Scottish and Glasgow great, as well as a Hollywood film star, he also works selflessly for charity, including Comic Relief."

Billy Connolly has also helped local causes, such as benefit concerts for the victims of the 2002 East End floods, and he raised funds for the Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice with a charity cycle ride from Glasgow to London.

Mr Winter added: "Above all, Billy Connolly has presented himself as a proud citizen of the city of Glasgow.

"In doing so he has shown the world the unique humour, generosity and resilience of Glaswegians."

The Freedom of the City is an honour which can be given to "persons of distinction or persons who have rendered eminent service to the city".

In the past Glasgow has awarded it to boxer Jim Watt MBE, Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, former South African President Nelson Mandela and Harry McShane, in recognition of his services to the Labour and Trade Union Movements.

Billy Connolly was not available for comment on the award.