England head coach Brian Ashton and retired full-back Jason Robinson have been recognised in the New Year Honours List.
Recognition following surprise World Cup final appearance
England head coach Brian Ashton and retired full-back Jason Robinson have been recognised in the New Year Honours List.
Ashton, who has just signed a new contract with the RFU, helped upset the odds by leading England to the World Cup final.
Having taken over from Andy Robinson, Ashton saw England go from also-rans to potential champions - with only millimetres denying them a try which could have seen them secure a successful defence of the Webb Ellis Trophy.
And the 61-year-old, who also coached Bath and Ireland, has been rewarded for his efforts with the MBE.
Ashton is joined in the honours by former dual-code international Robinson, who is awarded the OBE.
Popular
Robinson, a popular figure among fans and players alike, came out of international retirement to help guide England to the final in Paris.
The 33-year-old, who captained England before his retirement in 2005, hung up his boots for good in November.
Leeds-born Robinson made his name in the 13-a-side code with Wigan, before his high profile switch to union in 2000.
He was awarded the MBE in the aftermath of England's World Cup triumph in 2003, with the diminutive winger scoring a try in the final against Australia.
Ashton said: "I'm honoured and privileged to receive an MBE. This award is not just for me but for all who have been involved and helped me throughout my rugby career.
"Jason Robinson thoroughly deserves his OBE. He has contributed so much to both union and league and I'm delighted for him."
CBE for Foster
Elsewhere, there is a CBE for Brendan Foster, whose athletics career saw him win a gold medal in the 5,000 metres at the 1974 European Championships, prior to his founding the Great North Run.
Former England women's cricket captain Rachel Heyhoe-Flint gets an OBE, as do former Arsenal goalkeeper Bob Wilson and Gordon Taylor, chief executive of the Professional Footballers' Association.
And snooker also gains recognition, with current world champion John Higgins - who also took the title in 1998 - in receipt of an MBE.
Full New Year Honours list
