Sutton Council has granted award-winning paralympian David Weir the Freedom of the Borough award.

Mr Weir, MBE, won four medals in Beijing and has also won four London marathons.

The presentation on Monday marks the first time in 30 years that a member of the community who does not sit on the council has won the accolade.

The mayor of Sutton, Councillor Brendan Hudson, said the award marks Mr Weir's contribution to his community.

"Importantly it is also an opportunity, on behalf of the entire borough, to thank David for the contribution he has made to the local community," Mr Hudson said.

Mr Weir said he owed a debt of gratitude to his home borough.

"Sutton Council actually helped me get started in the sport as the mayor gave me a grant for about £800 when I was eight years old to buy my first racing wheelchair, after he saw me win a race in my normal chair."

Mr Weir came home from Beijing with two golds, a silver and a bronze medal.