Wilko Awarded MBE

By Mally (30/12/02)
December 30 2002

Despite yesterday's 20-0 whitewash at London Irish, Jonny Wilkinson the Newcastle Falcons' injured captain has something to celebrate.

Jonny has been awarded an MBE in the New Years Honours List for his services to rugby union. At only 23 Wilkinson is one of the youngest sportsmen to ever receive the award.

Arguably the finest fly-half in the world today Jonny is not just a brilliant advertisement for the game on the pitch but a credit to both club and country off it. Ask any fan who has ever asked for his autograph Jonny is always prepared to sign them - even for those rugby fans who accost him at motorway service stations wearing London Irish shirts!!

As ever Jonny remains unfailingly modest telling the Daily telegraph:

"It is very unexpected, but I am very honoured and proud to have been put forward and given such a prestigious decoration," he said.

A well deserved award, congratulations Jonny!

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The Independent - report

Daily Telegraph - report

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