Botham's proudest day as he receives knighthood

Sir Ian Botham on what was 'the proudest moment of my life' © Getty Images Enlarge

Ian Botham collected his knighthood from the Queen this morning on what he said was "the proudest moment of my life".

Botham, who is a fervent royalist, said: "I've admired the Queen for many years, been lucky enough to have met her at a few occasions, but today was the icing on the cake. I've had some great moments in sport and other walks of life but nothing matches this."

Botham was knighted in the Queen's Birthday Honours List in June for his services to cricket and charity work. He has raised millions for Leukaemia Research through his walks and other events.

"It's not just for myself but for my family and for the leukaemia people who give their time to work for me," he told the BBC. "It's just a very special day and one that I will never forget."

Botham went from the palace to Lord's where the MCC were hosting a party for him in the Long Room. "It is wonderful of the MCC," Botham said, adding that not only family and friends would attend but also many of the charity workers he had been associated with.

Reflecting on his decision to become associated with Leukaemia Research, he said that he had seen children dying while in hospital and was determined to help. Since he started his involvement the survival rate for those with the illness has risen from 20% to 80%.

Asked if he thought he was a legend, Botham smiled. "I think so," he said. "I hope so."