Sir Michael Caine after he was awarded the Freedom of Southwark PIC Lewis Whyld/PA Wire

Big screen star Sir Michael Caine was given the freedom of the south London borough he grew up in, this weekend.

The 79-year-old actor was in Southwark to receive the honour along with other luminaries in a ceremony at St George’s Cathedral, near to Elephant and Castle - where he grew up.

Sir Michael said: “I’ve received awards before, but this is so personal, because it’s about where I grew up.”

Asked why he thought he had been given the award, he said: “I think it’s because I come from here.

“I did my first acting in a youth club here, an amateur dramatic society. I’m part of what this place is.”

The Alfie and Zulu star was nominated for the award by Peter John, leader of Southwark Council, who said: “Sir Michael has been an exceptional ambassador for the place where he grew up and an example for all Southwark residents.”