ENGLAND footballer Kieran Trippier is to be offered the Freedom of Bury after his European Championship exploits.

The Bury-born defender has already thanked fans on Twitter for their support during the tournament, which saw the Three Lions fail at the final hurdle on penalties.

Now Cllr Eamonn O'Brien, Labour leader of Bury Council, has nominated the former Woodhey High student for the borough's highest civic honour.

The councillor said the last month had given a "much-needed lift" to the public's spirits after 16 months of coronavirus.

Cllr O'Brien also condemned the "vile racist abuse" some players had encountered on social media in the wake of the final loss.

Cllr O'Brien added: "In particular, we have yet again seen the talents of one of our own here in Bury.

"Kieran Trippier was instrumental in the England goal during the final and has been a key part of this hugely impressive squad.

"No other Bury lad has reached the level he has for his country's team. This is worthy of our highest level of recognition.

"That is why I am pleased that we will be awarding Kieran the Freedom of the Borough of Bury.

"We hope that this recognition will be a sign not only of his outstanding personal achievement, but the role he has played as part of a team that has inspired a nation during such a difficult time."

The player had been suggested as a borough freeman once before, under previous council leader Rishi Shori but the status was never formally progressed.