A well-known Presteigne resident visited Windsor Castle last month to receive an MBE for services to disability cricket.

Thomas William (Bill) Higginson received his award from Princess Anne on November 23 at the castle, accompanied by his proud wife, Liz.

The award was originally announced in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2020, but due to impact of Covid-19 the investitures were delayed.

Bill was a professional cricketer, playing games for Middlesex and Nottinghamshire in the 1960s. He then became an international coach and spent more than 20 years in the education sector as a sports coach.

This led to Bill owning an outdoor adventure hotel based in Llandrindod Wells. He was president of Rotary International during his time in the town, and also served on the town council, including a year as mayor in 2005/6.

Out of the blue, Bill was introduced to cricketers with assorted disabilities; multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, amputees, partially sighted, and those with learning disorders; the list is endless.

As manager and coach to the Welsh Disability Team, Bill joined the national committee of the charity, which resulted in the formation of the British Association with Cricketers with Disabilities (BACD) becoming their Chairman and finally, President.

It was for this voluntary work that he deservedly received the MBE.Bill remarked that it was "a day to remember" following his Investiture at Windsor Castle last week. "Princess Anne, who made the presentation, was delightful and made me feel relaxed," said Bill."Our exchange touched on her interest in Riding for the Disabled which linked perfectly with my own voluntary work for Cricketers with Disabilities."We enjoyed travelling through the stunning Castle interiors containing a fascinating collection of past monarchs portraits. A truly memorable experience."