An England Lioness has been nominated for a prestigious public award following her heroic displays in the Women’s World Cup.

A motion has been put forward to grant Maidstone-born Alessia Russo Freedom of the Borough – the highest award a council can award an individual.

Russo was one of England manager Sarina Wiegman’s star players during the team’s run to the final.

Yet despite leading her country’s attack in the first half on Sunday, it wasn’t meant to be for the Lionesses as they succumbed to a 1-0 defeat to Spain in Sydney.

Now, Maidstone councillor Stanley Forecast has nominated her for the Freedom of the Borough award, which has already been seconded by Cllr Michelle Hastie.

It is traditionally awarded to local people who have made a significant contribution to their hometown or have achieved something outstanding.

Cllr Forecast, the Tory borough representative for Allington, said: “This week I have put forward a motion to Maidstone council that we grant our hometown Lioness, Alessia Russo, Freedom of the Borough.

“The Lionesses became our European champions and our second-ever World Cup finalists – with our Maidstone goalscorer a key player.

“Should all colleagues be minded to support my motion, we will be showing our enormous pride of Alessia's achievement as well as our commitment to women’s sport.”

Russo went to East Farleigh Primary and St Simon Stock Secondary - as well as playing for Bearsted FC – in the early stages of her career.

She also played youth football for West Farleigh before being scouted by Charlton Athletic – and later signing for Arsenal.

North Ward representative Cllr Hastie added: “I’m glad to have seconded this motion to the council to award Alessia the title of Honorary Freeman of the Borough of Maidstone.

“Regardless of the World Cup final result on Sunday, Cllr Stanley Forecast and myself, with the support of our whole council group, believe it is right Alessia is honoured by the town.

“This is for her outstanding achievement and the inspiration she has given to young girls (and boys) across the borough.”

The England forward was already praised in Maidstone for her role in the squad’s European Championship triumph last year.

The 24-year-old was reportedly set to have a room at the new Mote Park cafe and visitor centre named after her due to her efforts in helping the team win the trophy 13 months ago.

However a date for the opening is yet to be confirmed.