Gordon Banks, who played in goal for Sir Alf Ramsey’s World Cup winners, will receive the honour alongside Neil ‘Nello’ Baldwin, who became legendary amongst Stoke fans despite never playing in a match.
Bird fancier and professional clown Baldwin was the subject of a recent BBC film starring Toby Jones, which told the story of his recovery from a learning disability and status as a cult figure at the Potteries, where he was a kit man.
Now this tale has taken another twist with the news that he is to receive the freedom of the city, together with Banks, who was put forward for the honour by Councillor Adrian Knapper, who said:
“He has been with us through thick and thin and by granting the Freedom of the City to Gordon Banks OBE the city council is recognising his outstanding contribution to city life.”
The recognition for both men is likely to prove popular with fans of the club, and they will be able to call on banner printing in Stoke on Trent to show their support.
Councillor Paul Breeze, who nominated Baldwin, stated that the story depicted in the BBC film had motivated him to put forward the proposal.