British and Irish Lions

The former England centre, who toured with Britain and Ireland's elite in 1997 and 2001 will be presented with the honour at a ceremony at Buckingham Palace later next year.

In 1997 Catt was on tour with England in Argentina when he was called up to the Lions squad as injury cover. The 29-year-old then went onto start the final test of the tour which South Africa won 35 v 16.

His appearance on that day in Ellis Park was the only test he played for the Lions after his tour of Australia four years later was cut short by injury, forcing him to return home.

Catt is now employed as attack coach at London Irish and received an MBE back in 2003 for his role in England's World Cup victory in Australia and has now been awarded an OBE for his services to rugby.

"I am delighted and honoured to have been awarded an OBE," said Catt.

"I have been fortunate to have had an enjoyable and successful career in rugby and to now be recognised in such a way makes me feel very privileged. I would like to thank my family along with everyone who has supported and encouraged me throughout my career."

Some very lucky winners got to host some of the British & Irish Lions in their homes in Ireland this week. 'Host The Pride' gave the opportunity for fans to host some of the biggest names in world rugby.

It looks like the British & Irish Lions will get a tough work out in Newcastle on Tuesday, 11 June ahead of their clash with the Waratahs after Combined Country coach Cameron Blades selected 18 Super Rugby players in his initial squad.

Lions skipper Sam Warburton says the lessons he and his Welsh colleagues learnt in Australia last summer will stand them in good stead for their return visit with Britain and Ireland's elite next month.