Jonny Wilkinson has taken his place in the history books

Wilkinson, star of Saturday's Rugby World Cup Final 20-17 victory in Sydney, plays for the city's Rugby Union team, Newcastle Falcons.

The fly half is currently on his way back home to the UK with the rest of the team.

Previous recipients of the honour include the late Cardinal Basil Hulme, Nelson Mandela, Bob Geldof and fellow sportsmen Jackie Milburn, Alan Shearer and Jonathan Edwards.

Newcastle City Council leader Tony Flynn will propose that Wilkinson is awarded the Freedom of the City and will seek the approval at a full council meeting on Wednesday 3 December.

The people of Newcastle feel a great pride for all of Jonny's achievements Tony Flynn, leader of Newcastle City Council

If approved, he will receive a Scroll of Freedom, sign a register dating back to the 1800s and have his name chiselled into a wall of honour at Newcastle Civic Centre.

Mr Flynn said Wilkinson had proved himself worthy of the accolade.

He said: "It is the highest honour the city is able to bestow on anyone.

"The people of Newcastle feel a great pride for all of Jonny's achievements.

"Jonny Wilkinson came to the city six years ago and with Rob Andrew has helped transform Newcastle Falcons Rugby Club.

"Jonny has shown his world class status and was designated yesterday as the best rugby player in the world."

Cultural ambassador

Wilkinson, 24, has played for Newcastle Falcons all of his professional career.

He is expected to play at their Kingston Park ground at the weekend as the Falcons take on London Wasps.

Sir Ian Wrigglesworth, chairman of the NewcastleGateshead Initiative, which promotes culture, said: "Jonny Wilkinson is another great sporting and cultural ambassador for NewcastleGateshead.

"He is a world-class sportsman who has made his home in the North East where we take pride in nurturing, encouraging and inspiring people to make the most of their talent and creativity."