Palace date for Woosie

Golfer Ian Woosnam will collect his OBE from the Prince of Wales at Buckingham Palace today.

The 49-year-old, who was born in Oswestry but now lives in Jersey, is being honoured for services to sport.

He was one of the “Big Five” of European golfers who dominated the pro tour in the 1990s - all of whom were born within 12 months of each other.

Woosnam became world number one in 1991 before his form faded in the late 90s, only for him to make a spectacular comeback in The Open Championship in 2001.

He also led the European team to victory in last year’s Ryder Cup.

Also collecting an OBE is singer, Joe Cocker, who has been honoured for services to music.

The 63-year-old from Sheffield initially trained to be an apprentice gas fitter but in 1961 started his musical career in the pubs of Sheffield.

Cocker, whose real first name is John not Joe, is probably best known for his gravelly interpretation of the Lennon & McCartney classic With a Little Help From My Friends. To celebrate his OBE, he has arranged two concerts - one in London and another in Sheffield - for later this month.

Internationally renowned fashion designer Betty Jackson and the actor John Wood will also receive CBEs in today’s ceremony.

Alan Ward (2)
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Midland Game Fair 2008