George Tuby (82) of Briggswath was one of four others who received the accolade – which has only been awarded a dozen times – bestowed upon him at Scarborough Town Hall.

Showman Mr Tuby who won the Whitby Gazette's Lifetime Achievement Award last year was represented by his wife Anne (76) as he was unable to attend due to ill-health.

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She received a scroll and commemorative medal on his behalf.

Around 100 people turned out to watch the ceremony which was performed by borough mayor Bill Chatt.

He told the Whitby Gazette: "It was very nice to honour someone who has done so much work, not only for Whitby, but who has also been a driving force for the entire borough.

"One example of this, and a fact that I didn't know about George until it was mentioned at the ceremony, was that in his younger days, he championed the raising of £5,000 to buy a Spitfire as part of the Second World War effort.

"George is fondly known as GT by everyone that knows him. The times I have met George, he has always been a calm speaker and yet one of those people whose presence is immediately felt in the room. I really look up to George and have often gone to him for invaluable advice.

"George's wife accepted his Honorary Freeman of the Borough title on his behalf. It was a very moving part of the ceremony and I am very proud to have bestowed Honorary Freedom of the Borough status on George Tuby."

Speaking after the ceremony Mrs Tuby, who went with her family to the event, said: "I felt very proud and very emotional. George did too when I told him. It was wonderful."

Mr Tuby moved to the town four decades ago and soon became part of the local community supporting many organisations institutions and individuals. He remains vice president of Whitby Regatta which has benefited tremendously from his input.

He also served as town and borough mayor despite having a number of thriving businesses including Pleasureland in Pier Road.

Other honorary citizens were Tony Peers, Ken Dale and Lord Derwent.