The Loose Women star, who hails from Portadown, attended an official ceremony at the civic headquarters of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council on Saturday.
The 84-year-old is the first female recipient of the prestigious honour which was conferred on her by the local authority at The Palace Demesne in Armagh.
“I am deeply honoured to receive the Freedom of the Borough, particularly as it comes from the area where I grew up. County Armagh and Portadown my hometown has always held a very special place in my heart, and to be recognised in this way is incredibly humbling – it’s great to be home,” she said.
“I want to thank the council for considering me for this honour and arranging today’s very special event with family and friends.
“I look forward to continuing my work and supporting the causes close to my heart.”
The broadcaster has enjoyed a career spanning over five decades in television and radio and has become an on-screen favourite with fans of one of ITV’s biggest daytime shows.
Gloria Hunniford with late daughter Caron Keating.
The honour was granted in recognition of Gloria’s outstanding contributions to broadcasting and her tireless charitable work following the death of her daughter Caron Keating.
A spokesperson for the council said: “Her work has touched the lives of millions, and her dedication to excellence and integrity in journalism has set a high standard for the industry.
“In addition to her broadcasting achievements, Gloria is renowned for her significant charitable efforts.
“Following the tragic loss of her daughter, Caron Keating, to breast cancer, Gloria established the Caron Keating Foundation.
“This charity has raised millions of pounds to support cancer patients and their families.
“In Northern Ireland, the foundation supports Action Cancer’s mobile breast screening service, ‘The Big Bus,’ which Gloria launched in 2006.”
The bus service has provided thousands of women with crucial early detection of breast cancer resulting in countless lives being saved.
Gloria is also renowned for her work on BBC One show Rip off Britain which tackles consumer issues facing frustrated viewers dealing with dodgy traders.
Gloria Hunniford’s career in TV and radio has spanned more than five decades
The Freedom of the Borough, which is the highest honour the council can award, was bestowed upon the TV presenter by Lord Mayor Margaret Tinsley.
“It is with great pride to confer the Freedom of the Borough to celebrate Gloria’s connection to our community, combined with her professional achievements and the profound impact from supporting cancer patients and their families through The Caron Keating Foundation,” she said.
The proud recipient was presented with a scroll to commemorate the special occasion in the presence of loved ones, elected representatives, distinguished guests and cancer charity figures.
Gloria Hunniford was made OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours back in 2017 in recognition of her contribution to charity work.
At the time she said her late daughter would have been “so proud” of her.
Caron (41) passed away in 2004 after being diagnosed with breast cancer.
Her siblings Paul and Michael also helped set up the Caron Keating Foundation in her memory.