Jason Leonard, NEC Harlequins, England and British Lions prop, was over the moon when he heard he had been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list.
“Rugby has given me so many opportunities and a great life but I never expected to receive an honour like this,” he said. “I was absolutely stunned when I opened the letter and over the moon when I took it in.”

“I’m delighted for Jason and he thoroughly deserves this award,” said RFU President, Roy Manock. “He has been a tremendous ambassador for the game of rugby union and his achievements at club and international level are ones to be admired. His breaking of Rory Underwood’s England 85-cap appearance record against Argentina in 2000 was just one of a number of milestones in a career which should act as an inspiration for young players coming through the ranks at community and professional club level.”

England Head Coach, Clive Woodward, added, “Jason has been the cornerstone of the England forward pack for over a decade and everyone in the game has the utmost respect for him. He is a true ambassador for rugby and for sport.”