SOMERSET cricket legend Marcus Trescothick has been recognised in the New Year's Honours List for his services to cricket.

Trescothick, 48 - currently Lead Batting Coach for England Men but previously one of England Men’s most successful opening batters – is awarded an OBE for his work as an ambassador for mental health.

He was awarded an MBE in 2005 after England Men historically regained the Ashes, so this will see his honours upgraded.

Marcus Trescothick OBE said: "It’s a huge honour to have been awarded an OBE. I was delighted in 2005 when we were recognised as a team with MBEs but this is very special.

"I’ve always wanted to let people know my story and to try and raise awareness to help anyone who may be struggling with poor mental health alongside the Professional Cricketers’ Association, so recognition of that work means a lot.”

Another England cricket star was also on the list as Stuart Broad was also given a CBE.

Broad, 37, who retired from cricket this summer with 604 Test wickets to his name, is awarded a CBE for services to cricket.

It rounds off a remarkable year for Broad, who left his playing career on a high with the final wicket in England Men’s fifth Test victory in the LV= Insurance Men’s Ashes, and earned himself second place in BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards.

Chair of the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Richard Thompson, said: “As a whole game we’re absolutely delighted to see Stuart and Marcus honoured in this way.

“They have been fantastic ambassadors for cricket for many years, and they have played a major role in helping build the profile of our game and in turn bringing more people into our sport.

“Stuart has long been an inspirational figure and will be remembered as a true great of English cricket, and the spectacular nature of his retirement this summer was the perfect farewell.

“It’s also so fitting that Marcus has now been recognised both for his achievements on the field and for his bravery in talking so honestly about his own mental health challenges which has helped so many people.

"I would also like to pay tribute to all those hard-working people who have been honoured for their work in cricket. I am delighted to be able to share with them my warmest congratulations, on behalf of everyone in our game.”

Robin Varley, Patricia Gaywood, Duncan Holden and Robert Nellies also received honours for their service to cricket.

Stuart Broad CBE said: “All I ever wanted to do was play cricket, and to have had the career that I was able to enjoy and to receive honours like this is incredibly special. I’m very proud that my contributions to cricket have been recognised, and it means a lot to me and my family.