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Knocked out by his MBE honour

3/ 1/2007

RICKY Hatton has admitted he 'wanted to shout it from the rooftops' when he knew he had been nominated for a New Year's honour.

The boxer was awarded an MBE in the weekend's honours list for his services to sport, ranking him alongside the likes of Liverpool and England midfielder Steven Gerrard.

While thrilled at the personal accolade, the Hitman also took time out to pay tribute to mum Carol and dad Ray for their work in raising him.

"A letter came three weeks ago saying I'd been put forward and asking if I'd be willing to accept it which was a daft question!

"We couldn't announce anything because I had to keep quiet and let them announce it officially, which was difficult when I wanted to shout it from the rooftops.

"I was speechless to say the least but I think I've got it not just because of the way I fight, but because of my charity work as well. Being a professional, it isn't just what you do between the ropes, it's outside as well.

"Praise obviously goes to my family as well. My mum and dad kept me grounded and brought me up the right way."

According to dad Ray, Ricky had been in line to receive the honour 12 months ago after defeating Kostya Tszyu and Carlos Maussa, only for the legal proceedings between him and former promoter Frank Warren to delay matters.

Understandably though, Hatton senior was just as thrilled at the award coming a year later.

He said: "A lot of people seem to forget what he's done in the past year. He's only had one fight this year, he went up a weight and won another world title.

"Not many people win world titles, never mind at two different weights which tends to get overlooked at times.

"It's hard to believe he's got an MBE because he'll always be our little lad."

Civil servant John Mortin also scooped an MBE in recognition of his 41-year career in the prison service.

John, of Burns Fold, Dukinfield, a former custody office manager at HMP Manchester, said he was delighted by the news. The 59-year-old married dad-of-two added: "I feel a certain amount of trepidation about collecting my medal at Buckingham Palace, but I'm sure the Ricky Hattons and Steven Gerrards will be feeling just as nervous."