Paul Elliott today became the first black footballer to collect a CBE at Buckingham Palace.

The former Chelsea and Celtic defender was named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list for his services to equality and diversity in football.

And he was in London on Friday to accept the award at the Buckingham Palace ceremony.

FA Chairman David Bernstein passed on his and the organisation’s congratulations to the FA150 Ambassador.

He said: "I and everyone at The Football Association would like to congratulate Paul on the recent presentation of his CBE.

“This is a richly deserved honour and he should take great pride in this recognition.

“Paul's continued work for the game, and in particular his tireless anti-discrimination campaigning are an example to us all."

Elliott previously received an MBE in 2003 for his involvement with anti-racism initiatives in football.