Cook awarded Freedom of City of London

Alastair Cook has been rewarded for his stunning efforts during England's Ashes win by being afforded the freedom of the City of London.

Cook racked up 766 runs in the series at an average of 120 - including three centuries - as England retained the urn in dominant style. He is now back in England having been overlooked for the ODI and T20 sides, but he has not been forgotten.

Cook, who will receive the accolade at a ceremony later this year, said: "I am greatly honoured and privileged to be given the Freedom of London for doing something I love ... beating the Aussies. I would like to thank all those involved with this decision."

Traditionally, the award means he is entitled to drink in any public house in the city for free - an honour that held Andrew Flintoff in good stead when he was granted the freedom of Preston in 2005 - and drive sheep and cattle through the streets.