Top rugby coach Warren Gatland has been made an honorary ambassador for his hometown: Hamilton.
The 50-year-old Welsh rugby coach was today awarded an honorary city ambassadorship by the Hamilton City Council.
He is the second person to receive the accolade, behind Archbishop Sir David Moxon.
Gatland, a former AllBlack, has led Wales' national team since 2007 and this year was made an OBE in the British Queen's Birthday Honours. He grew up in Hamilton and is a former student of Hamilton Boys' High School.
Hamilton mayor Julie Hardaker said Gatland's award was in recognition of his ongoing contribution to rugby - both locally and internationally.
"You have continued to make your mark on the rugby world stage, firstly as a coach for Ireland and since 2007 as coach for Wales - making you their longest-serving national coach,'' she said.
"And all the while still maintaining a strong link to Hamilton and supporting our city on the international stage.''
