FORMER Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Packie Bonner is to be accorded the county's highest honour at a reception hosted by the Mayor and members of Donegal County Council in Lifford later this month.

Mr Bonner, who spent all his professional career playing for Glasgow Celtic, is to receive the 'Freedom of Donegal' medal on Monday, June 25.

The honour comes twelve months after Shay Given, Ireland's current No. 1, became the first ever recipient of the award.

Council Chairman, Cllr Enda Bonner, said he was delighted to formally propose his namesake for the award.

"Last year we gave the first ever Freedom of Donegal award to Shay Given, a goalkeeper still at the height of his career. I'm delighted to confirm that Packie Bonner has accepted this year's award and will follow in the footsteps of his student," Cllr Bonner said.

The award ceremony will take place at a reception hosted by the Mayor and members of Donegal County Council at the County House in Lifford on Monday, June 25, at 2pm.