Brady, who has managed his business in the capital for more than 30 years, is a patron of the Teenage Cancer Trust, was involved in the Live Aid concert in 1986 and worked on the steering committee for VE anniversary celebrations in 1995.

The ceremony was interesting and a privilege to be invited to. I went with my family and grandchildren, said Brady.

Alito Color is progressing with its move to consolidate its Islington and Romford sites to a purpose-built 4,000m2 plant in Leytonstone by the end of the summer.

According to the Corporation of London, privileges connected to the freedom include the right to herd sheep over London Bridge, to go about the city with a drawn sword, to be hung with a silken rope if convicted of a capital offence and be drunk and disorderly without fear of arrest.