Little Dáithí MacGabhann beams as he becomes the youngest ever recipient of the Freedom of the City in Belfast yesterday.
The six-year-old, who has a heart condition and has spent years on the transplant list, helped change the law around organ donation in Northern Ireland.
Daithi donned a ringmaster’s top hat and tails for the event with a big top and performers gathered in the grounds of City Hall in his honour.
Read More: Four dogs die after walks at popular Irish lake as vet issues stark warning
Speaking before the ceremony Dáithí’s father, Máirtín, said he was full of pride for his son.
“Our Dáithí, he woke up this morning and we just heard from his room him singing: ‘Freedom freedom freedom!’
“It’s hard to put into words exactly how I feel but proud – beyond proud – and I’m sure that nobody deserves it more than our Dáithí for everything he’s done for our society.”
Belfast Mayor Councillor Tina Black said the young campaigner had “the keys to all our hearts and now he has the keys to the city as well”.
READ NEXT:
Jonathan Dowdall expected to leave the country in weeks under witness protection
'I want this put to bed' - Una Healy discusses throuple on RTE chat show
Met Eireann pinpoint date high pressure will 'weaken its grip' on Ireland
Holly Willoughby to deliver 'honest statement' about Phillip Schofield
Irish Britain's Got Talent star shares secret to staying calm ahead of final
Get news updates direct to your inbox by signing up to our daily newsletter here
