City to honour Norwegian king with its highest tribute.

NEWCASTLE'S links with Norway are set to be strengthened with the announcement that its king is to be given the city's highest honour.

City councillors have agreed to award King Harald V the honorary freedom of the city, an honour previously bestowed on a select band of people including Nelson Mandela, Sir Bobby Robson and former American president Jimmy Carter.

The award was proposed by deputy leader of the council David Faulkner to mark the 40th anniversary of the official opening of the Civic Centre by King Harald's father Olaf V It will also recognise and celebrate the close links between Newcastle and Norway.

King Harald will be invited to receive the honour at a ceremony next year which will mark the ruby anniversary of opening of the council building.

Coun Faulkner said: "November 2008 will represent a significant milestone in the life of the city and preparations for this special anniversary bring back memories of the opening ceremony in 1968, and the major events which have taken place in the Civic Centre since.

"The city council was honoured and delighted to have His Majesty King Olav V of Norway open the building formally, symbolising the very powerful associations between Newcastle and Norway down the centuries.

"These close bonds have continued, through economic, educational, tourism and cultural links."