BRITAIN'S most successful Paralympian, Tanni Grey-Thompson, is to be offered the freedom of the borough of Redcar and Cleveland on her return from Athens.

The council cabinet accepted the recommendation by the coalition's three group leaders - Chris Abbott (Liberal Democrat), Vera Moody (Conservative) and Steve Kay (Independent) - at a meeting on Tuesday night.

It followed the wheelchair athlete's success in Monday's T53 400m event, which took her career tally to a record-breaking 11 gold medals on the track after she had taken gold in the 100m event last Friday.

A spokesman said the recommendation would go to the full council on November 4.

He added: "We would like to think that, with Tanni's help, we could organise a ceremony before Christmas."

The award for Mrs Grey-Thompson, who lives in Redcar with husband, Ian, and daughter, Carys, is not only in recognition of her sporting achievements, but also the contribution she makes to the local community.

Coun Abbott said: "Since moving to the North-East, everyone has been impressed at the dedication she gives to her sport and the time she's prepared to devote to local causes."

Coun Moody added: "We hope Tanni will feel that the freedom of the borough is a special honour that recognises what a superb role model she has been across all sectors of our community.

"She'll certainly be in good company - Mo Mowlam, the former Redcar MP, and the town's historian, Vera Robinson, have also enjoyed the honour."

Coun Kay, who campaigned for the late George Hardwick to receive his freedom in honour of his footballing achievements, said: "Tanni has definitely helped our borough gain recognition through her special talents and we're all proud of her.

"We know her roots are in Wales, of course, but she's become a real part of Redcar and Cleveland."

Pictured right: Tanni Grey-Thompson in action, winning the 400m at the Athens Paralympics.