Proud moment for conductor Simon Rattle in Liverpool

Oct 1 2008 by Liza Williams, Liverpool Daily Post

Sir Simon Rattle at the Town Hall, with the Lord Mayor of Liverpool Cllr Steve Rotheram, and Superlordmayorlambanana _320

CONDUCTOR Simon Rattle was celebrated as one of Liverpool’s “favourite sons” last night, as he received the Freedom of the City.

The ceremony at Liverpool Town Hall was attended by friends, family and guests.

Council leader Warren Bradley, Lord Mayor Steve Rotheram and shadow member for education Jane Corbett gave glowing speeches paying tribute to Sir Simon’s contribution to music, and members of Liverpool’s Music Support Service’s Saturday Morning Music Club played.

Sir Simon said: “I cannot tell you how touching this is.

“I want to thank the city of Liverpool and all the people who made it possible.

“Ken Dodd enjoys my symphonies, Paul Whitehouse does an impression of me and I can drive sheep through the city of Liverpool... I am a very happy Scouser.”

Cllr Rotheram said: “Sir Simon’s inspirational story is one that epitomises the very best of Liverpool spirit.”