Fund-raiser Matt King honoured with OBE

Former London Broncos academy player Matt King has been awarded an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list.

Matt has received the honour for his charity work following a serious spinal injury he sustained in 2004. He was left paralysed below the neck and is unable to breathe independently.

Despite his difficulties Matt has gone onto raise money for the RFL Benevolent Fund, which included painting Christmas cards with his mouth. He is also an ambassador for the Variety Club of Great Britain and is an advocate for spinal injury charities, showing great character and determination to overcome adversity.

Matt said he was delighted to receive the honour.

He said: “I am deeply humbled to have even been considered.

“I would like to thank my family and all those who have assisted me since my accident, particularly from the Rugby League community. The support I have received has made coming to terms with my injury, and my new life, a great deal easier, and for that I will always be thankful.”

Matt has since gone onto achieve great things despite his disability, including completing his A Levels and is now a trainee solicitor.

But Matt has no intention to stop raising funds and awareness after picking up the honour.

He said: “I hope this honour can provide extra publicity and profile to those who work so hard on behalf of people with serious spinal injuries.”

Matt will also carry the Olympic torch on its relay through Dunstable in Bedfordshire on July 9.

RFL chief executive Nigel Wood hailed paid tribute to the work he has done since his injury, including raising money for the Benevolent Fund.

Wood said: “Matt’s selfless attitude and sheer commitment to everything he does sets an example to the rest of us and I can’t think of anyone who deserves this recognition more than he does.”

The RFL Benevolent Fund helps seriously injured players like Matt overcome their difficulties after life saving accidents.