TWO Nottingham inventors have become the first scientists to be awarded Nottingham's highest honour.
Councillors conferred the Freedom of Nottingham on Sir Peter Mansfield and Dr Stewart Adams at a meeting of the city Council yesterday.
Sir Peter was recognised for inventing the MRI machine and related equipment during the 1970s, when he was a lecturer, reader and professor at the University of Nottingham.
Dr Adams received the title for his research which eventually led to the creation of ibuprofen.
Sir Peter, 79, of Beeston Fields, said: "I feel most fortunate to live in historic Nottingham and I'm proud to be associated with the University of Nottingham.
"Without the support of (former University of Nottingham vice-chancellor) Sir Colin Campbell, I wouldn't be here today being honoured by this great city.
"There would be no MRI and no benefit to those suffering from various conditions and illnesses.
"Thank you all for this honour – I am looking forward to hear what it entitles me to do."
As well as being honoured in the council meeting, people receiving the title of Freeman of the City are exempt from tolls, allowed to drive sheep over Trent Bridge and can graze cattle on "common grounds".
Dr Stewart Adams, of Redhill, said: "I am proud that ibuprofen is a Nottingham drug and that it is still in use 40 years after it was launched.
"Thank you for the honour – I'm incredibly humbled."
The pair were the 38th and 39th to receive the title of Freeman, with other notables Past Nottingham notables to receive it including Alan Sillitoe, Sir Paul Smith, Torvill and Dean, and Brian Clough.
Deputy leader of Nottingham City Council Graham Chapman said it was the first time scientists had been given the honour by the city.
He said: "I was looking through the list and I saw sports people, business people and lawyers, military people but I did not see one scientist.
"But perhaps it's right: in science it's the task and the result that counts, not the celebration."
Councillor Jon Collins, Leader of Nottingham City Council, said: "Nottingham is very proud of the life-changing contributions made by Sir Peter Mansfield and Dr Stewart Adams.
"Our city is inspired by their contribution to medical science."
Who do you think has made a big contribution to the city and deserves recognition? Let us know by e-mailing newsdesk@nottinghampostgroup.co.uk
