SPORTING superstar Ben Stokes is set to become a freeman of the borough in which his cricketing career started.

The prolific England all-rounder - hero of this summer’s World Cup-winning expolits - grew up in Cockermouth.

Independent councillor Paul Scott, who serves on the executive, is calling for an “extraordinary meeting” of the council next week to confirm the honour - following calls for the sportsman to be knighted.

His motion states: “Ben Stokes has worked tirelessly in his career and put Cockermouth on the map with his dedication and commitment.

“Ben Stokes is the son of Gerard and Deborah Stokes and moved to England at the age of 12 after his father was appointed head coach of Workington Town Rugby League club.

“Ben grew up in Cockermouth and attended Cockermouth School, playing cricket for Cockermouth Cricket Club.

“He won the North Lancashire and Cumbria Cricket League Premier Division Title with the club as a 15-year-old in 2006.”

The motion adds: “In the second innings of the present Ashes series, Ben secured the 3rd test for England with a workman-like batting performance and again secured player of the match.

“I firmly believe 2019 belongs to Ben Stokes and to acknowledge this and all of his achievements I call an extraordinary meeting of council to award him the position of Freeman of our Borough.’

Mr Scott has listed the Cumbrian’s sporting achievements, including most runs in a Test innings at the sixth position; most runs in the first session of a day in Tests; and Man of the Final in the Cricket World Cup 2019.