Watson receives MBE
Ex-boxer Michael Watson, brain damaged in a fight with Chris Eubank 13 years ago, has been honoured by the Queen at Buckingham Palace in London.
Michael, 38, who doctors said would never walk again, stepped up unaided to receive an MBE in recognition of his work for disabled sport.
'This is definitely the pinnacle of my life,' he said.
'I was determined to walk up to the Queen without any help - and I did it. I managed to do it on my own - every little helps.
'Each and every day is an improvement in my life.'
His brother Geoff, a meals-on-wheels worker for Hackney Council in east London, had been on standby to lend a helping hand.
'He's my minder but he's too expensive now,' Michael joked after the investiture ceremony.
It was another personal milestone in the life of the former boxing star who was partially paralysed in the Eubank bout.
Last year he completed the London Marathon, covering the 26.2 miles in six days to raise £20,000 for charity.
'I just kept thinking, "Cross the finishing line, cross the line",' he said.
'I'm deeply touched to receive an MBE. It's a great honour to be receiving such an award. It's a good start to the New Year.
'The Queen said she was pleased to be giving me the award and that she had heard of my achievements. She said, "Keep up the good work".
'I'm just overwhelmed.'
