Bradford Council has agreed to bestow the district’s highest honour on former supermarket boss Sir Ken Morrison.

Councillors voted last night to make Sir Ken a Freeman of the City.

Sir Ken, who was born in Lister Avenue, Bowling, retired as chairman of Bradford-based Morrisons in 2008 after more than 50 years with the firm, which began as a Bradford market stall in 1899.

Council leader, Labour’s Councillor Ian Greenwood, said: “To be admitted as an individual to the freedomship of the city, the person has to be a Bradfordian who has made a national or international contribution.

“Sir Ken has maintained his connections with Bradford over his life. He is an outstanding friend and ambassador of the district.”

A civic ceremony will now be organised to formally admit Sir Ken to the roll of Honorary Freeman of the City. His name will join that of author JB Priestley, the Black Dyke Band, former MP Barbara Castle, artist David Hockney, former Bradford Bulls coach Brian Noble, and the 4th Battalion of the Parachute Regiment.

Labour, Conservative and BNP members voted in favour while Liberal Democrats and Greens voted against.