City Honours Civil Rights Activist and Air Balloon Pioneer

1.00.00pm GMT Wed 5th Dec 2007

Bristol civil rights campaigner Paul Stephenson, and founder of 'Cameron Balloons' Don Cameron, have both become Freemen of the City. The honour was conferred at a special meeting of the city council yesterday.

Mr Stephenson made history by becoming the first black person to have the Freedom of the City of Bristol bestowed on him. He was honoured for his public service and race relations work.

Mr Cameron is the founder of balloon makers 'Cameron Balloons' and the world-famous 'Bristol Balloon Fiesta'. He was honoured for his contribution to the art and science of modern hot-air ballooning.

Stephen Williams MP commented:

"All of us who serve in public office in Bristol owe Paul Stephenson a debt of gratitude for his contribution to building a city where race relations are mainly harmonious. As the year draws to a close, now is an entirely appropriate time to give Paul Stephenson the city's highest honour."

"I also welcome the nomination of Don Cameron. Bristol is known throughout the country for ballooning and the annual Balloon Fiesta. He has given people from all over the world yet another reason to know and visit Bristol."