Chris Kamara to get Freedom of the City in Wakefield

The West Yorkshire city’s council will present Chris Kamara MBE with the honour in May.

The ex-professional football player and punditry national treasure has lived in Wakefield for more than three decades.

Freedom of the City is the highest honour Wakefield Council can give to an individual or organisation. It is a ceremonial recognition of their role and the contribution they have made.

Chris Kamara MBE, pictured (Image: Wakefield Council)

Chris, who played for and managed the Bantams, said: “When I got the call, I just couldn’t believe it. Freedom of the City for Shakey Wakey – unbelievable.

“I have lived in Wakefield longer than anywhere else. We came here in 1990 and 34 years later we are still here. The people and the places are amazing, and we will never leave Wakefield. All my family are here and it will always be our home.

“That is why this means so much to me, I’m blown away by it.”

Chris has been involved in raising millions for many charities over the years, including for Show Racism the Red Card and as a national ambassador for Marie Curie.

In recent years, Chris has been instrumental in raising awareness for apraxia after being diagnosed with the condition himself in 2022.

The Mayor of Wakefield, Cllr Josie Pritchard, will present the award at the civic ceremony followed by a private reception in his honour.

Cllr Pritchard said: “Chris is a local and national legend and an inspiration to so many people. We are absolutely delighted to be giving him the highest honour we can bestow – Freedom of the City.

“He has been a massive supporter of many charities, raising millions and making a difference to the lives of many."

Chris Kamara, right, during his spell as Bradford City manager (Image: Newsquest)

During his 20-year football career, Chris played for nine English professional clubs.

He made a combined 641 appearances for Bradford City, Leeds United, Sheffield United, Middlesbrough, Portsmouth, Swindon Town, Stoke City, Luton Town and Brentford, scoring 71 goals and gaining three promotions.

He then went on to manage Bradford City and Stoke City a total of 126 times, leading Bradford to promotion in 1996.

Chris was appointed MBE in the 2023 New Year Honours list for services to football, anti-racism and charity.

Chris Kamara receives his MBE from the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle (Image: PA)

He was a presenter and football analyst on Sky Sports and mainstay on Soccer Saturday.

He once infamously observed Spurs players were ‘fighting like beavers’ during a derby match with Arsenal.