Botham rewarded with knighthood

Ian Botham, the former England cricketer who has raised more than £10 million for charities, was awarded a knighthood by the Queen yesterday. Botham, 51, made his name as a flamboyant and influential all-rounder. Through 11 long-distance walks he has...

Ian Botham, the former England cricketer who has raised more than £10 million for charities, was awarded a knighthood by the Queen yesterday.

Botham, 51, made his name as a flamboyant and influential all-rounder. Through 11 long-distance walks he has helped to dramatically increase the survival rate of leukaemia sufferers.

Nicknamed "Beefy", he played 102 Tests for England in a career that lasted from 1974 to 1993.

Botham is still England's leading wicket-taker with 383 scalps during his Test career and many believe a knighthood has been long overdue.

Giggs OBE

Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs was rewarded with an OBE after he announced his international retirement having won 64 caps for Wales despite never playing an away friendly.

Another footballing stalwart, Teddy Sheringham, was also honoured, with the former England striker awarded an MBE.

FA chairman Geoff Thompson received an OBE in recognition of his services. He will step down next year after eight years as chairman but will continue as a FIFA and UEFA vice-president.

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