London Irish attack coach Mike Catt has been awarded an OBE in the Queen's New Year's Honours List.

The former England centre was awarded an MBE back in 2003 for his part in England’s World Cup success and has been included on the 2011 Honours list for his services to rugby.

Catt, who will be presented with the honour at a ceremony at Buckingham Palace later next year spoke this morning on the news.

"I am delighted and honoured to have been awarded an OBE,” said Catt.

"I have been fortunate to have had an enjoyable and successful career in rugby and to now be recognised in such a way makes me feel very privileged. I would like to thank my family along with everyone who has supported and encouraged me throughout my career.”

Catt’s Exiles side are currently bottom of Pool 3 in the Heineken Cup and host the Ospreys in Round 5 on Sunday January 16 before travelling to Thomond Park to face Munster the following weekend.