LISTEN - World Superbike Champion receives Freedom of Antrim and Newtownabbey Council

by Gráinne Connolly

Four-time World Superbike Champion Jonathan Rea has received the Freedom of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.

It's the highest accolade a council can bestow upon one of its citizens.

(Four-time World Superbike Champion Jonathan Rea)

Hundreds of people packed in to the Theatre at the Mill in Newtownabbey last night, to see the Ballyclare rider bestowed with the honour.

He set the record for the most number of championship wins, by becoming the 2018 victor.

Despite saying he feels more comfortable in leathers, 31-year-old Rea told Q Radio - he's delighted to be recognised outside of his motor racing circle. 

If Rea does win this year, it'll be the fifth championship victory in a row.

He says he's determined to make Northern Ireland proud once again.

Four-time World Superbike champion @jonathanrea has been awarded the Freedom of the Borough of Antrim and Newtownabbey for his services to sport. He spoke to Q Radio at the ceremony last night. Rea will be aiming to win his fifth championship in a row next season. @ANBorough pic.twitter.com/k8Vbgs9P5h

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) January 16, 2019

So what did I get up to today? Gym, round up some sheep in my leathers and then got presented with the freedom @ANBorough. Yes I did say rounded up some sheep! #FarmerJR https://t.co/Rb4Sphdyzd

— Jonathan Rea (@jonathanrea) January 15, 2019