A long-serving reverend has been recognised for his work and commitment to the community.

The Reverend Keith Teasdale, who lives in Haltwhistle but is originally from Gateshead, has been awarded Honorary Freeman of the city at a special Carlisle City Council meeting on February 7.

Keith, along with radio presenter Val Armstrong and councillor John Collier, were named as ‘persons of distinction’ and given the title to thank them for their ‘rendered eminent service to the City of Carlisle area’.

Reflecting on the special occasion, Keith said: "I found out that the council wanted to give me the freedom of the city around Autumn last year when the leader of the Carlisle council called me to tell me about it.

"It was such a huge honour and I felt overwhelmed to be asked.

"I have been chaplain to the city council for the last 13 years as part of my role as city centre chaplain to Carlisle and St Cuthberts.

"I have carried on my role as chaplain after I retired being a minister two years ago and they got permission from the Archbishop of Carlisle for that to happen. I will continue this role until they complete the re-organisation that they are due to have.

"It was announced on December that we would get the title then on February 7.

"In the special ceremony, I had to swear an oath to the Carlisle mayor and his successors and I was presented with a beautiful certificate and the city gave myself and guests a wonderful afternoon tea with prosecco."

Read: Senior Northumbria Police officer ‘too ill’ for trial

Father Teasdale was inducted as Vicar of St Cuthbert, Carlisle, in 2010 and has been an active member of the Carlisle City Centre fraternity and Churches Together.

He was a loyal supporter of the Mayor’s Charity and hosted many events including ‘an evening with Henry VIII’.

His work also included beinga great support to the Carlisle community during the floods in 2013, despite being personally affected, and during the pandemic.

Haltwhistle Cllr Terry Christie said: "When I heard about Keith receiving the honourary title I believe it could not have gone to a better person.

"He does a lot for the community and helped many during the floods of Carlisle.

"He has also been an great ambassador for Haltwhistle."