CHERRIES manager Eddie Howe should be given the rare honour of being made a Freeman of Bournemouth, according to a former mayor's escort.

The title has only gone to a handful of distinguished citizens.

But Fred Curtis - whose late wife Jeanne was a keen Cherries fan, as well as being mayor in one of their most memorable seasons - said Mr Howe should be added to their ranks.

Eddie Howe inspired countless fans by leading the Cherries to the Premiership and the Championship title and urging fans to “enjoy, relish and embrace” their success.

Former AFC Bournemouth boss Harry Redknapp has said he should be made "Lord Mayor of Bournemouth or something".

Mr Curtis said: "I do hope that Bournemouth Borough Council will propose that Eddie Howe will be made a freeman of the borough of Bournemouth.

"I had the privilege of meeting him and presenting a souvenir that was presented to my wife, Alderman Mrs Jeanne Curtis, when she was mayor in recognition of her support for the Cherries.

"In my opinion, he is every inch a gentleman and a credit to the town and football worldwide. If Jeanne was alive today she would have been delighted to have made the proposal."

Last year, Mr Curtis returned to the club a unique memento that was given to his late wife - a commemorative Bournemouth manhole cover.

The cover was presented to Mrs Curtis 30 years ago by in recognition of her support for the Cherries, at a mayor's banquet attended by then-manager Harry Redknapp and superstar George Best.

Jeanne’s year as mayor coincided with the Cherries’ 2-0 defeat of Manchester United in the FA Cup.

A statement from Tony Williams, chief executive of Bournemouth council, said: “All decisions on awarding individuals a Freeman of the Borough are made by full council, following a recommendation by the council group leaders.

“In the light of the outstanding achievement of AFC Bournemouth I will ensure that the issue is brought to the attention of the new council when it reconvenes in May.”

The existing roll of Freemen of Bournemouth is dominated by long-serving councillors. It also includes long-serving former MP Lord Eden and Bournemouth's England mascot Ken Baily.