By Kris HollandBBC News, Essex
Getty ImagesPeter Shilton, now aged 74, had a playing career spanning three decadesEx-England footballer Peter Shilton said he was "surprised and delighted" to be appointed CBE in the New Year Honours.
Shilton, who lives in Essex, was given the award for services to football and the prevention of gambling harm.
The 74-year-old is England's most-capped player, with 125, and was a gambling addict for 45 years until his wife helped him quit eight years ago.
He said he was "very excited" and "couldn't quite believe it, really".
Mr Shilton had already become an MBE and then an OBE. His England career took him to the World Cup finals of 1982, 1986 and 1990,
His club career included playing for his hometown team Leicester City before moves to Stoke City, Nottingham Forest (where he won a league title and two European Cups), Southampton, Derby County and Plymouth Argyle.
Steph Shilton works with a charity which helps people overcome their addiction issuesMr Shilton's wife, Steph Shilton, is an addiction counsellor and the couple campaign on the issue together.
"The award is for Steph as well - for the journey we've been through together," said Mr Shilton.
"We have had some lovely messages of congratulations. I'm pleased that it has brought gambling harm to the fore."
He added: "There is still a lot of work to be done [to combat gambling addictions], and it's not getting any easier.
"If you are struggling, my best advice is to talk to somebody and get some help."
Mark Leech/Getty ImagesShilton with the England team ahead of the semi-final with West Germany in the 1990 World CupWhere to get help
The NHS addiction support website outlines what help is available.
GamCare operates the National Gambling Helpline, providing information, advice and support for anyone affected by gambling problems - advisers are available 24 hours a day on Freephone 0808 8020 133 or via web chat.
Gamblers Anonymous provides a list of support meetings for problem gamblers in Scotland here and in England, Wales and Northern Ireland here.
Further sources of support can be found on the BBC Action Line page.
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