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Ricky collects his MBE

Sue Carr
13/ 7/2007

BOXING champion Ricky Hatton was as proud as punch after collecting his MBE from Buckingham Palace.

The Hyde Hitman, who received his award from Prince Charles, described the experience as "one of the greatest days of my life" and said "I knew from a young age that I could do reasonably well at boxing but to achieve something like this, it'swell beyond anything I could have dreamed of.

"It's a day that will stay with me until I die," he said.

The 28-year-old, who beat Jose Luis Castillo in Las Vegas last month to become IBO light welterweight champion, also paid tribute to his supporters.

"It's the love of the fans that's priceless. It's nice when people call me a people's champion" he added.

Ricky, who collected his award with girlfriend Jennifer Dooley and parents Carol and Ray, said he would be celebrating in "true Ricky Hatton style" with a meal and a few pints.