Comedian Elaine C Smith honoured with Freedom of Glasgow
The city's highest honour also entitles her to bear arms for the city and have a jail cell to herself if she is ever arrested.She will be officially recognised at a civic reception for her contribution to the arts and support for women's rights.
Asked about the fact she is only the fifth female recipient, Smith told BBC Scotland News: "All I think of are all the women I know and from history in this city who should have been given this award."I do feel I'm standing on the shoulders of giants."Smith exercised some of her new rights in a photoshoot by grazing cattle borrowed from Glasgow's Pollok Park.
Smith is best known for her roles in Rab C Nesbitt and Two Doors Down in a showbiz career that has spanned more than 40 years.She has starred in her own series Elaine on BBC Scotland and has had roles in a string of comedy series, including City Lights and Naked Video.She is a regular on the Glasgow pantomime scene and on stage has starred in shows including Calendar Girls, Annie and the Susan Boyle musical, which she co-wrote.Smith is also a charity campaigner and political activist, particularly on issues such as poverty and women's rights.Glasgow Lord Provost Councillor Jacqueline McLaren said: "Elaine's dedication to advocating for and supporting women, and her successful and impactful work in the arts, makes her a deserving recipient of the Freedom of the City.
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