Oscar winner Sir Michael Caine has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London in honour of his successful acting career.

An exhibit celebrating The Dark Knight star's life and work was launched at the Museum of London on Friday, and Caine was recognised with the prestigious award during the big opening.

The veteran now joins the likes of Dame Judi Dench, Diana, Princess of Wales and Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling, who have all previously received the accolade.

Thanking museum curators for erecting the new art display in his honour, the 79 year old tells BBC News, "I think the museum is great for London, and I am so proud to be included."

The freedom traditionally permits the recipient to be drunk and disorderly on the streets of the city without fearing arrest, and to drive sheep over London Bridge - but these privileges are mainly symbolic in modern times.