Lions legend Ian McGeechan knighted for his services to rugby union

Sir Ian, 63, is one of the most decorated coaches in the game, having won a host of competitions at club level and on the international stage.

He won more than 30 caps for Scotland and played for the British and Irish Lions, before leading them from the touchline in four Test series. He now joins England's World Cup-winning coach Sir Clive Woodward in being made a rugby knight in recognition of his services.

Speaking after the investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle, Sir Ian said: "There's a lot of good people in rugby and to be picked out and honoured in this way is I feel very special.

"I think I've been lucky because I've been able to play and coach some great teams and great people.

"In the end that's what you remember, that a lot of good people have allowed things to happen and helped you achieve some of the results."

He coached the Lions to a memorable series victory against South Africa in 1997, and managed Scotland to a Grand Slam in 1990.

Sir Ian has served on seven tours of duty with the Lions since 1974, when he played in all four Tests as the "Invincibles" swept unbeaten on a 22-match tour through South Africa.

He earned 32 caps for Scotland and made four more Lions Test appearances against New Zealand in 1977, before becoming one of the most successful coaches in the global game. As head coach, he masterminded the series victory over Australia in 1989.

At club level, his greatest success came at Wasps, where he won a full house of trophies – the Anglo-Welsh Cup, the Heineken Cup and the Guinness Premiership – in a coaching dream- team with Shaun Edwards.