Bleddyn Williams receives an MBE

Wales and Lions legend Bleddyn Williams - dubbed the 'Prince of Centres' in his pomp - has been honoured with an MBE in the New Year Honours list, an award that recognises his contribution to the game of rugby.

Williams, who will celebrate his 82nd birthday in February, is one of Wales' all-time greats, keeping exalted company with legendary figures like Gareth Edwards, Barry John and JPR Williams.

First capped as a fly-half against England at Cardiff Arms Park in 1947, he helped Wales to a share of the Five Nations title that season, but 1953 was the year that Williams left a lasting impression on Welsh rugby.

He captained Cardiff and Wales to victories over Bob Stuart's All Blacks, and a measure of the latter achievement can be gauged in that New Zealand have won all 17 subsequent meetings between the countries.

Forging a mighty midfield partnership with his Cardiff team-mate Dr Jack Matthews, Williams proved an inspirational player for club and country.

And he also made a mark on the British and Irish Lions' illustrious history, touring New Zealand and Australia with them in 1950.

Williams, vice-captain to Irish forward Karl Mullen, featured in 20 of the 30 games during a marathon trip which included four Tests against the All Blacks and two against Australia.

With Mullen injured, Williams took over as skipper for the narrow third and fourth Test defeats in Wellington and Auckland, and he led the Lions to a 19-6 success against Australia in Brisbane, scoring a try.

His 22nd and final Test match appearance - again as captain - came against England in 1955, when a 3-0 victory brought the curtain down on a truly outstanding career.