Mr Neeson will then be invited to sign the Book of Burgesses.

BBC: Liam Neeson to receive freedom of Ballymena award later

From 1759 to the outbreak of the American Revolution, Washington managed his lands around Mount Vernon and served in the Virginia House of Burgesses.

WHITEHOUSE: George Washington

Mr Neeson was then invited to sign the Book of Burgesses.

BBC: Liam Neeson arrives in Ballymena to receive award