A FORMER councillor will be given the Freedom of Greenwich borough next week.

Peter King will get the honourary award in recognition of his services to the area.

Freedom of the borough offers no material gain but is the highest civic distinction which can be conferred upon individuals in recognition of outstanding service.

Mr King, first elected to the council in 1978, stood down in May 2010 after a career which saw him represent Palace and Eltham South wards.

He was also both leader and deputy leader of the Conservative group at various times.

Mr King will be presented with a certificate at a special meeting in Woolwich Town Hall next week.