THE unofficial mascot of Hexham will be awarded Freedom to Roam in a ceremony.

Yang Bell will receive the specially named Freedom to Roam on Friday, May 19 at Hexham Hospital.

Owned by Hexham's Glynis Bell, Yang was nominated for the PDSA award at the beginning of the year by Alison Galilian, of Haydon Bridge.

Organised by Hexham Town Council, the Freedom to Roam award recognises Yang's significance and support of the Hexham community.

The name was changed from Freedom of the Town, which usually applies to military personnel.

Yang will receive a certificate and engraved key.

Councillor Alison Smith said: "I am delighted to have been one of the town councillors championing the cause of our local feline hero of the community in recognition of his voluntary work at Hexham Hospital.

"Yang brings a special level of comfort to people in what can be a stressful time when visiting the hospital and never seems to miss a day. Hexham Town Council recently awarded its annual Steward and Bailiff Award to two very deserving members of our community who go above and beyond in their roles in Hexham. 

"We wanted to thank Yang for his unique service too and have created this special award just for him," she said.

Cllr Suzanne Fairless-Aitken explained Yang has provided years of service and is dedicated to serving the community.

"He's a real legend of the town, everyone knows him. He's been posted about in Italy, he's won a PDSA pet OBE award, and he's been named the mascot of a North-east charity in the last year as well.

"Because he's our cat, our town, we decided to give him the Freedom to Roam. He's a symbol of caring and selfless dedication to the community. 

"We wanted to do it on National Pet Day but because of the strikes, we changed the dates. 

"We think it's a lovely thing to do for the town, it's a boost for the town. It's a caring and community-led place and that's what he is. He has no preferences, he's inclusive and welcomes everyone no matter who they are."