Inspector Morse author Colin Dexter was given a surprise special award last night to recognise his work in raising the profile of Oxford.
Mr Dexter, 78, was given the first ever Prestige of Oxford Award in a ceremony at Town Hall to admit the city’s new Freemen.
The famous writer, who has previously been given the freedom of the city, thought he was presenting an award for the Freemen’s Apprentice of the Year when he was surprised with the accolade.
In presenting the award Freeman chairman Howard Crapper made a veiled reference to the Morse books.
He said: “We’re grateful to you for enhancing the worldwide reputation of this fine city. How many thousands of people now travel this way because of your Endeavour?
“I now bestow on you the title of the first ever Prestige of Oxford.”
Speaking after the ceremony Mr Dexter said: “It’s a very nice honour. I feel very proud.
"I’m not an Oxfordian myself and I didn’t come to Oxford University but I now feel very much a part of Oxford.”
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