A CELEBRATION of Ben Westwood's contribution to Warrington will be delayed out of respect for council leader Terry O'Neill.

The 38-year-old was due to be given the title of  ‘honorary citizen’ at a council meeting at the Town Hall on Monday.

It is an accolade bestowed on those who are not born and raised in the borough, but who have made a ‘particular contribution’ to the town.

But due to the death of Cllr O'Neill after a short illness on Sunday, Monday's meeting is now expected to be a solemn affair with tributes to the much-loved politician.

Westwood, the club's longest serving player, has agreed to now be recognised at the next council meeting on December 16.

The forward knew Cllr O'Neill through his association with the Wire and suggested the celebration was moved.

Council chief executive Steven Broomhead said: "I want to give great credit to Ben Westwood for being so thoughtful."