Comedian Elaine C Smith honoured with Freedom of Glasgow
Actress and comedian Elaine C Smith says it is "quite the honour" to be granted the Freedom of Glasgow as part of the city's 850th birthday celebrations.The star, one of only five women to have received the award, now has the right to graze cows on Glasgow Green and fish in the River Clyde.She joked: "I had hoped I would get the keys to every pub in Glasgow but, sadly, I don't."Smith joins a distinguished list, dating back to 1800, which includes Marie Curie, Nelson Mandela, Sir Kenny Dalglish, Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Billy Connolly.
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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