Newcastle Labour has welcomed the decision to award Newcastle United legend Kevin Keegan the Honorary Freedom of the City, following a motion brought forward by Labour councillors earlier this year calling for his outstanding contribution to Newcastle to be formally recognised.
At a special meeting of Newcastle City Council on Wednesday 4 November, councillors agreed to award Kevin Keegan the city’s highest civic honour, recognising the enormous contribution he made to Newcastle United, the city and generations of football supporters.
The award, made posthumously following Kevin’s sad passing earlier this year, is a fitting tribute to a man who holds a very special place in the hearts of Geordies.
Earlier this year, Newcastle Labour councillors brought a motion before the City Council calling for Kevin’s contribution to be recognised, reflecting the affection and admiration felt for him across Newcastle and beyond.
Kevin Keegan’s relationship with Newcastle began in 1982, when his arrival as a player brought renewed excitement and belief to St James’ Park. His return as manager in 1992 transformed the fortunes of Newcastle United, taking the club from the brink of relegation to the third tier to the Premier League and establishing one of the most exciting teams in English football.
Under his leadership, Newcastle United became known for its attacking football, with the famous ‘Entertainers’ side capturing the imagination of supporters across the country.
But Kevin’s contribution went far beyond results on the pitch. He brought pride, optimism and a renewed sense of belief to the city, helping to put Newcastle firmly in the national and international spotlight.
Cllr Ged Bell, Leader of Newcastle Labour Group, said:
“Kevin Keegan was so much more than a footballer or a manager to the people of Newcastle. He was someone who understood this city, its people and just how much Newcastle United means to generations of Geordies.
“He gave us some of the happiest memories we’ve ever had as football supporters. He brought excitement, hope and belief back to St James’ Park, and his passion for Newcastle was there for everyone to see.
“Earlier this year, Labour councillors brought forward a motion calling for Kevin’s contribution to our city to be formally recognised, and I’m absolutely delighted that he has now been awarded the Honorary Freedom of Newcastle.
“It’s deeply sad that Kevin isn’t here to receive this honour himself, but his legacy will live on for generations. This is a fitting tribute to someone who gave so much to our city and will always hold a special place in our hearts.”
The Honorary Freedom of the City is the highest civic honour Newcastle can bestow. Kevin’s name will be inscribed in the Banqueting Hall at Newcastle Civic Centre, alongside other distinguished recipients.
He joins fellow Newcastle United legends including Sir Bobby Robson, Jackie Milburn, Alan Shearer, and Eddie Howe, in receiving the honour.
Newcastle Labour is proud to have helped make the case for this recognition and welcomes the cross-party support for honouring someone who meant so much to our city.
Kevin Keegan will forever be part of Newcastle’s history, and now his contribution will be permanently recognised by the city he loved.