HUDDERSFIELD Giants star Jim Gannon becomes a British citizen tomorrow.
The Australian-born rugby league forward will swear allegiance to the Queen at a cere- mony in Halifax.
He will be among the first group in Calderdale to be granted British citizenship when he pledges loyalty to his adopted country.
Gannon, 26, arrived in England in 1999 and lives in Elland.
The former Australian Under-19 international came to the UK after starring for his native club, Balmain Tigers. He played with Halifax, moving to the Giants in 2002.
He is married with two sons, Jacob and Morgan.
"When I first came here I couldn't believe how friendly the people were and how beautiful the countryside is," said Gannon.
"As an Australian, the Queen has always been my head of state. So I'm overjoyed at pledging allegiance to her."
Following a welcome and address by the Mayor of Calderdale, Clr Geraldine Carter, Gannon will swear an oath of allegiance and pledge loyalty to the UK. He will then sign the Calderdale citizenship register and be given his citizenship certificate.
Clr Carter said: "This will be a public declaration and a milestone in the lives of those taking part."
* The new citizenship ceremonies were part of the Asylum Act 2002
* New citizens swear allegiance to the Queen
* They also pledge to uphold the UK's rights, freedoms and democratic values
* Would-be citizens apply by post and need a knowledge of the English language
* The ceremonies can be held in town halls, register offices, parks or suitable buildings or gardens
