Former Brighton & Hove Albion defender Chris Ramsey has been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list for services to football and diversity in sport.
Ramsey spent four years with the Seagulls between 1980 and 1984, and was in the starting line-up for the FA Cup final against Manchester United in 1983.
The 57-year-old has since enjoyed a successful coaching career, with his roles at Tottenham Hotspur, Queens Park Rangers and England paving the way for other black coaches in the game.
Ramsey, who is currently head of coaching at QPR, is also a passionate anti-racism campaigner.
He told QPR’s website, “I am quite in shock if I’m being honest.
“I have been in football for 41 years and have managed to touch every part of the game – grassroots, youth, women’s football, disability football, as well as at all first team levels. That means a lot to me.
“The diversity part is something that is close to my heart. I think it’s very important that we realise there are still areas of diversity that need to be looked at in the game.
“I thank all the clubs that I have worked for, especially QPR and also my time at Tottenham, which is where I was able to really cement my reputation.”
The club would like to congratulate Chris for being awarded this honour.