Luther Blissett has been awarded an OBE for services to football and charity.

The 64-year-old, who made his Hornets debut in 1976 and became the club’s record goalscorer and leading appearance maker, said: “That my career as a footballer can be used by the charities to touch the lives, not just of football fans, but their families and the community as a whole is in itself a great honour.

“To receive an OBE not just for my achievements in football but for using that career for the good of others makes me immeasurably proud, even more so in this Platinum Jubilee year.”

Luther became one of Watford's greatest ever players

One of only four men to play in all four divisions for Watford in their meteoric climb from the Fourth Division to the First Division, Luther’s career flourished under coach Tom Walley and the club’s greatest ever manager Graham Taylor, the driving force behind bringing the club and community together.

“Graham Taylor represented more than a manager,” Luther said. “He was a father figure and inspiration to me and all those who were part of that golden era for Watford FC.

“Graham taught us to be unafraid of a challenge, but also to wear the shirt with pride because the whole community invested in us and we carried their hopes and dreams when we walked out on that pitch. We were expected to give our all - and to give back.

“It is something that became second nature and I am proud every time that someone is inspired either by my goals, or our team glory or the way that we engaged with the people of Watford and other communities.”

Luther entered the history books on December 15, 1982 when he became the first black player to score for England, netting a hat-trick against Luxembourg.

He was among the first English players to command a £1 million fee when he joined AC Milan, enjoyed further success at Bournemouth, and later returned to Vicarage Road as a coach under Graham Taylor to help Watford achieve promotion to the Premier League for the first time.

Luther celebrates with Graham Taylor and Kenny Jackett

Luther’s charity work has been tireless, both locally and nationally, playing a leading role in Watford’s response to the Coronavirus pandemic as he worked alongside elected mayor Peter Taylor to raise more than £250,000.

He has helped to reunite former players to continue the community legacy Graham Taylor inspired in them. Currently this includes establishing the Sunflower Social Club, to support Ukraine evacuees in the county. Alongside this, he has developed a programme for veterans in the Watford area. He continues daily to make calls and visits to Hornets fans of all ages in need.

Luther with the Freedom of the Borough. Picture: Simon Jacobs

Luther was granted the Freedom of the Borough of Watford last year in recognition of his community work, was also awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Hertfordshire and made a deputy lieutenant of Hertfordshire.