MORE than 40 years after winning one of the most sought after medals in world sport, football legend Jimmy Montgomery has been awarded another.

The former Sunderland goalkeeper whose wonder saves in the 1973 FA Cup final against Leeds United helped his team achieve one of the greatest ever upsets in football history, was being awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM).

He was presented with his medal, awarded in the Queen's Birthday Honours list, by the Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear Susan Winfield, at a civic reception in the Sunderland Mayor's Parlour today (Thursday, October 10).

The British Empire Medal is awarded to people in recognition for outstanding services to their country, community, profession and walk of life.

As an ambassador for his home city and supporter of numerous charities and community causes, he scored highly in every criteria in the award of his BEM.

He was awarded his BEM in the Queen's Birthday Honours List earlier this year, and as is the right of all recipients, chose to have it presented among friends and family in his home city.

The goalkeeper, better known as 'Monty' to generations of football fans across the world, said: "I was flabbergasted when I was first told I was to receive this medal, but obviously also highly delighted.

"It's an honour for me, my family, Sunderland football club and the city.

"The Lord Lieutenant's office said I could choose where to have the medal presented and I thought the civic centre was the most fitting place, right in the middle of Sunderland surrounded by friends and family with my wife Joy."

The presentation ceremony was also attended by Sunderland Mayor Cllor Barry Curran, Deputy Lord Lieutenant, Dr Norman Taylor, and civic guests.

Cllr Curran said: "As Mayor of Sunderland on behalf of everyone in the city, I'd like to congratulate Jimmy Montgomery on being awarded the British Empire Medal.

"He fully deserves this honour as someone who never fails to represent himself, his family, his city and his football club with the greatest dignity, grace and humour."