Actress given Freedom of Sandwell

Award-winning Black Country-born actress Josie Lawrence was presented with the Freedom of Sandwell - and has shared the honour with the people of Old Hill.

The comedienne, aged 51, was at Sandwell Council House on Saturday to receive the honour.

She grew up in Old Hill but now lives in Hackney, London, and told the ceremony tearfully: "I didn't think I would be as moved as I am to receive this honour."

Best known for her comedy performances in hit series Whose Line Is It Anyway? she was more recently in EastEnders.

Also a recognised stage actress, she started her career at the Barlow Theatre in Oldbury where she is a patron.

She said: "I want to share this honour with all those in Old Hill, my Old Hill family, neighbours, friends, nurses, doctors and teachers.

"I would also like to thank my dad who was a true gentleman."

At the ceremony long-standing councillor Bill Archer was made an honorary alderman.

He was leader of the Conservative group for a number of years and served the area for more than 35 years.