LANCASHIRE and England cricket hero Andrew "Freddie" Flintoff is to be installed as a Freeman of the city of Preston on Friday night.

The hero of England's Ashes victory in 2005 has been honoured for services and accomplishments in the sport.

Flintoff, 28, will be robed and receive a scroll at a council chamber ceremony.

He will then meet members of the public as he makes his way to the Harris Museum and Art Gallery, where he will appear on the balcony to address fans at about 6.15pm.

After this a guard of honour, made up of children from Flintoff's former schools and cricket clubs - City of Preston High School, Greenland's Primary, Harris Park and St Anne's Cricket Club, will line his route to the Guild Hall for the sell-out celebration dinner.

Councillor Harold Parker, chair of the cross party Mayoralty, Civics and Freedoms Group, said: "Andrew may now be an MBE and international sports star, but he is Preston-born and has always been proud of his roots."

A number of city centre roads will be closed from 6pm to 7.30pm including: Lancaster Road; Harris Street; Jackson Street; Birley Street; Market Street and Market Place.

Only 22 people were honoured in the last century, including footballer Sir Tom Finney in 1979 and animator Nick Park in 1997.

The honour has no real privileges and is regarded as an award to men or women of note who have lived or worked in the city.

"I'm delighted to be awarded this prestigious honour," said Flintoff.

"I have always been very proud of my roots and am looking forward to and excited about seeing as many Prestonians as possible at the event."