The mayor and councillors were joined in the Town Hall's Assembly Room by a distinguished gathering of former mayors, honorary aldermen, past council members and others from the local community.

But if the occasion and surroundings had all the trappings of civic solemnity, the tone of the evening was one of cheerful celebration, befitting the character of a councillor dubbed Smiler by a former Herald editor.

Councillor Skilton, who was born in Old Town in 1920, no longer sits on the borough council, but continues to represent the town at County Hall.

As a Freeman his name is added to an exclusive list which includes Sir Winston Churchill and Martina Navratilova.

As council leader David Tutt pointed out when formally proposing the honour, the occasion recognised Cllr Skilton as 'a true son of Eastbourne who has put the town and its people first throughout his life.'

Maurice Skilton, a lifelong Liberal, grew up in Royal Sussex Crescent in Old Town, the part of the town he has represented and championed through his life.

He attended St Mary's and Bedewell Schools, served with the 8th Army in Africa and worked as a bespoke tailor.

It was during a conversation with former councillor Aubrey Vickers - during a suit fitting in the late 1950s - that the idea of becoming a councillor was put to him.

After several unsuccessful attempts at the polls, he joined the old Eastbourne County Borough Council in 1961 and later became an alderman.

When the council lost its county borough status under local government reorganisation - 'one of the saddest days of my life' Cllr Skilton told his audience - he continued to represent the Downside (later Old Town) ward.

He was mayor from 1991-93 and council leader from 1984-88. He has served continuously as a county councillor since 1985 as well as a spell in the 1970s.

Cllr Tutt listed some of Cllr Skilton's contributions to the town. He campaigned for a landbank to ensure an adequate supply of social housing, was the inspiration behind the development of Sovereign Harbour, ensured the preservation of the Eastbourne Park, turned the idea of an International Children's Conference into reality, and was an enthusiastic supporter of the Eastbourne Horse Show.

As a campaigner, said Cllr Tutt, Maurice Skilton had been an advocate of both the young and old, he had fought for the retention of the Old Town Library, had supported the Beachy Head Countryside Centre, and was even now leading a fundraising effort to save the Open Door charity.

"He is a true Eastbourne character, always with a smile on his face," said Cllr Tutt.

"He finds it difficult to dislike anyone - even if he's lost an election he'll talk about those who have beaten him as his friends."

A series of warm tributes were paid by others present.

Councillor Carolyn Heaps, who seconded the motion conferring Freedom of the Borough, praised Cllr Skilton's welcoming, sincere and approachable manner.

Peter Mumford, chairman of the Countryside Centre - where Cllr Skilton remains a committee member - spoke of his dedication and personal generosity.

Councillor Beryl Healy described him as 'unique' in his determination for action on local matters. Former councillor David Stevens, as a Tory, a political opponent, recalled their many altercations but the friendship that endured despite their differences.

County council chairman Cllr Bob Lacey added his own tribute, as did former town councillor Bert Leggett and County Councillor Roy Martin.

And Cllr Mike Thompson employed verse to add a lighthearted poetic eulogy.

Accepting the Freedom, Cllr Skilton spoke of the pleasure he had in witnessing the great progress of the town since the war, after it suffered badly from bombing.

Watched by many members of his family, including three great-grandchildren, he paid tribute to the town's force of volunteers who give their time in support of good causes.

And, regardless of his 87 years, he made it clear that he has no intention of bowing out of community involvement.

"I'm still working. I'm still in business," he said, prompting a standing ovation from those present.