Injured UK Soldier To Get Freedom Of Town - But Not The Farming Perks

The most injured British soldier from the Afghanistan conflict could be given the freedom of the town of Doncaster - but he won't be able to graze sheep and drive geese through the city. 

After being told he'd been nominated for the honour, Ben Parkinson MBE started doing some research about what it meant.

His mum, Diane, told Forces News:

"Ben read up about ancient freedoms, getting the keys and the right to graze livestock."

He announced plans to buy some sheep – fully intent on driving them through the town at rush hour.

But his hopes have been dashed by a technicality.

His mum said, whilst laughing:

"Apparently things have changed, and that law no longer exists."

Mayor of Doncaster council, Ros Jones said:

“I’m sure I was not the only Doncaster resident who watched on with pride as Ben carried the Olympic Torch in June 2012 or was inspired by the Lakeside Ben Parkinson sponsored walks.

"It is very rare that we honour people with the Freeman of the Borough, but in this case Ben is a very worthy nominee.”

The former paratrooper was severely injured after the vehicle he was travelling in was hit by a mine in Helmand province eight years ago. 

But since emerging from a coma in 2006, he has stunned medical staff, friends and family with what he's been able to achieve, and has kayaked 250 miles along the Yukon River in Canada.

Despite, the change in the law, Ben is delighted at the nomination and the potential recognition from his town.

He's added a picture of 'airborne warrior sheep' to his Facebook page instead.

 MORE: Injured British Soldier Continuing To Break Ground In Recovery