by Alex Claridge

Comedian and panto star Dave Lee has been made a Freeman of the City of Canterbury.

Dave, who lives in Herne, has starred in 16 pantomimes and has run Dave Lee’s Happy Holiday since 1994.

It has raised more than £2 million for sick and disabled Kent children to enjoy holidays and outings and he was awarded the MBE in 2003.

Illness forced him to not to perform in this winter’s pantomime at the Marlowe Theatre, Cinderella.

However, he was presented with a dressing room door plaque to mark his 1,000th appearance.

He will receive his award during a meeting of the full city council at the Guildhall on Tuesday, January 31 which will be followed by a reception in the Barrett’s Motors showroom.

Council leader John Gilbey nominated and Lib Dem leader Alex Perkins seconded the appointment.

According to his citation, Dave will receive the Freedom in recognition of: “The great and lasting enjoyment that he has given to the people of Canterbury district over very many years; in particular in his comedy performances, his tireless fundraising work and support for local charities and, of course, as the Marlowe Theatre’s regular Dame in pantomime, never forgetting 'The Bench’.

“He has given so much pleasure to so many people and the city is proud to honour him with the Freedom.”

To be awarded the Freedom of the City, the recipient needs to be renowned on a county or wider level and ideally have a reputation that enhances the image of the Canterbury district on that wider level.