David Sheepshanks Awarded CBE

By TownFans.co.uk
December 29 2012

Former Ipswich Town Chairman David Sheepshanks has been appointed as a Commander of the British Empire in the Queen’s New Year Honours list.

The recognition for the Eton schooled 60 year-old is a reflection on his services to the sport of football and also the charity work that he has carried out in Suffolk.

As well as joining the board of Town in 1987 and serving as Chairman for 13 years from 1995, Sheepshanks has contributed to many areas of Football in England. Amongst other roles in Football Sheepshanks has served as Chairman of the Football League and also as joint acting Chairman of the Football Association with Roger Burden 

Since September 2008 David Sheepshanks has served as chairman of St. George's Park, The FA's national football centr which opened successfully in October 2012 by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.  The development acts as a training base for 24 England teams.

Sheepshanks' charity work in Suffolk spans over many organisations. As well as founding the ITFC Education and Sports Trust (now known as the ITFC Charitable Trust), the former Town chairman has been involved in the Community Foundation for Suffolk, the Ipswich branch of the Samaritans and the Ipswich Citizens Advice Bureau.

Speaking of his delight at his achievements being recognised, Sheepshanks said this morning:  “I feel both humbled and proud. Of course, it is a wonderful honour to receive personally, but I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for all the special people that I have been privileged to work with along the way, both in the world of football and locally in Suffolk.

"And most of all, thanks to my wonderful wife and family, whose support is unwavering. Of course, 2012 has been a magnificent year for all of us at The FA with the opening of St. George’s Park.

"I feel that I receive this award in recognition of the combined efforts of the fabulous team that I have been privileged to lead who have designed, built, and now operate St. George’s Park.”

The Chairman of the Football Association, David Bernstein, also paid tribute to Sheepshanks: “It is fitting that David is recognised for his hard work and dedication, not just to St, George’s Park, but to football in general.

“His energy and enthusiasm for the project knows no bounds and it is fitting that as we enter our 150th year, we are able to celebrate in this way with David.”