Jessica Ennis Granted Freedom Of Sheffield (PICTURES)

Ennis Granted Freedom Of Sheffield (PICTURES)

Olympic hero Jessica Ennis has been officially granted the freedom of Sheffield.

Ennis, who won the heptathlon gold medal at London 2012's Super Saturday, was honoured at a private ceremony in her home city on Wednesday night, hosted by Lord Mayor John Campbell.

She was watched by family, friends and civic dignitaries as she signed the scroll granting her the honour.

Ennis was the poster girl of the London 2012 Olympics

Ennis, 27, said: "Winning the Olympics in Britain has exceeded everything I could have ever wished for and the reception I have received from my home city has been unbelievable.

"Being Olympic champion is the best feeling ever and as an athlete the ultimate achievement.

"I have to say a big thank you to the people of Sheffield who have believed in me and backed me over the years. To become a freeman of Sheffield is the biggest civic honour anyone can get and I'm so proud to receive it."

Mr Campbell described Ennis as "an amazing sportswoman, with incredible success and worldwide appeal".

Ennis has also had a stand at Brammal Lane named after her

"For this alone she is worthy of receiving the freedom of the city, but let's not forget the other things she does in Sheffield. A patron of two charities that mean so much to the people of Sheffield - the Children's Hospital and Weston Park charities. Her support helps them raise so much for their causes."

Jessica was born in Sheffield, went to school and university in the city and continues to live and train there.

She was greeted by thousands of people when she returned to the city after her Olympic triumph last year, and has already had a stand at Sheffield United's stadium, Brammal Lane, named after her.

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