ST JOHN'S, Antigua (CMC) - As he would have done in his heyday, Sir Vivian Richards led the Honours List, which included 11 other people, recognised yesterday by the Antigua and Barbuda government for their contribution to sports.

Sir Vivian, who captained the West Indies between 1985 and 1991, was conferred with the country's highest award, the Most Exalted Order of National Hero during the country's observance of its 25th anniversary of independence at the Antigua Recreation Ground (ARG).

Legendary cricketer Sydney Walling, 99, whose name adorns a stand at the ARG, and former Director of Sports Reginald Samuel, who was designer of the national flag, were bestowed with knighthoods, the second highest award.
Sir Sydney was honoured for his services to cricket and the community, while Sir Reginald was recognised for his contribution to art, sports and the community.

Multiple CARIFTA Games long and middle distance champion Janill Williams was awarded an order of merit.
Former trade unionist and politician Robin Bascus was also honoured for his contribution to sports with an order of merit, so too was the late politician, historian, cricket commentator and cultural activist Tim Hector.

Former West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) vice-president Clarvis Joseph and top cricket coach Taddy Arrindell, a former Combined Islands wicketkeeper/batsman, also received order of merit awards.

"I'm very happy and privileged," said Sir Vivian, who said he was also honoured to be recognised in the same way as former Prime Minister Vere Bird Snr.

"To be along side him (VC Bird) I'm very honoured. He's a great man. I've always felt he left a legacy. I would just like to let Antiguans and Barbudans know that regardless of whatever happened we must remember the things that got us to where we are and he (VC Bird) played a major role in that happening so to be alongside him I'm very honoured," Sir Vivian said.

He said he will not change his humble lifestyle.
Sir Vivian, 54, enjoyed a tremendous career in West Indies cricket, first as a majestic batsman, and then as a hugely successful captain of the Caribbean side that dominated world cricket.

He played 121 Test matches for the West Indies, scoring 8,540 runs at an average of 50.23, cracking 24 centuries.

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