Dame Judi Dench has been awarded the freedom of York during a ceremony at the city's Minster.

The honour for the Oscar-winning actress, who comes from the city, took place on Saturday.

The ceremony took place just weeks after film soundtrack writer John Barry, also became an Honorary Freeman of the city.

Dame Judi is the city's "living great" of the millennium, according to ceremony organisers.

Both have contributed enormously to the civic pride of the city

David Horton, Mayor of York

She received her new title at a celebration lunch at the Chapter House in the Minster.

Family and friends joined the actress for the ceremony.

Mr Barry, also from York, was given his title on 25 June at the city's Assembly Rooms, where he used to play trumpet in a jazz band.

He is credited with writing several James Bond film songs, including From Russia with Love, as well as the likes of Midnight Cowboy and Zulu.

The Lord Mayor of York, David Horton, presented the celebrities with a specially designed vellum scroll at the two ceremonies.

Composer John Barry has also "won freedom"

He said: "We are delighted and honoured that both Dame Judi and Mr Barry have been able to accept our invitation to come home to York and accept these awards.

"Both have contributed enormously to the civic pride of the city."

All members of York City Council unanimously backed the proposal to honour both of the celebrities.

Local civic trust activist John Shannon has also become an honorary freeman in recent weeks.

However, it is a rarely made honour, and the three were the first to receive it since the Duchess of Kent in April, 1989.