RUGBY ref Wayne Barnes – who started his journey to the World Cup final on the grounds of the Forest of Dean – has been awarded an OBE for services to the sport in the King's honours.

He retired last November, having officiated in a record 111 Test matches, including the 2023 World Cup final, where South Africa squeezed home against 14-man New Zealand.

The Bream-raised ref and qualified lawyer appeared at five Rugby World Cups with countless domestic and European finals.

Each year in April, he and wife Polly organise a game between some of the best-known names in rugby and a team made up of Forest players.

The event at Lydney’s Regentsholme ground has raised thousands of pounds for the charity Breast Cancer Now.

In September he will take to the stage at the Blake Theatre in Monmouth for a much anticipated "An Evening With...".

Tickets are £25 with a limited number of VIP Tickets available priced at £50 which will include seats in the front two rows, a “Meet & Greet” with Wayne, a photo opportunity and a signature from the man himself.

See www.theblaketheatre.org for more details.