EditorHONOUR: Jiffy’s pride as rugby legend receives CBE at Windsor
Welsh rugby great Jonathan Davies has been awarded a CBE in an emotional ceremony at Windsor Castle – but says the honour is “not about me”.
The former Wales fly-half, affectionately known as “Jiffy”, received the accolade for his services to cancer charities and broadcasting.
The investiture saw him presented with the medal by Prince William, in a proud moment for one of Welsh rugby’s most recognisable figures.
The Prince of Wales presents Jonathan Davies with his CBE during the Windsor Castle ceremony.(Image: Jonathan Davies / X)
But despite the prestige, Davies was quick to shift the spotlight.
“I’m honoured and privileged to receive the award on behalf of everyone,” he said.
“Thank you for the accolade, but it’s on behalf of all the team, all the people and all the fundraisers.”
The 63-year-old has been a driving force behind Velindre Cancer Centre for nearly two decades, serving as president since 2009 after first becoming a patron in 2007.
His commitment is deeply personal, having lost both his father and his first wife, Karen, to cancer.
Since then, he has helped raise more than £50 million through fundraising efforts – including gruelling cycling challenges and community events across Wales.
One of the most recent, the Cancer 50 Challenge, saw hundreds take on a 50-mile ride from Cardiff to Swansea, raising tens of thousands more for the cause.
Jonathan Davies at the finish line at Bracelet Bay having covered 50 miles for Jiffy’s 50 Cancer Challenge(Image: Adrian White)
Davies added: “I’m just a figurehead, and I’m so deeply proud to stand alongside everyone that helps to give hope.”
The ceremony also included a brief chat about Welsh rugby’s fortunes, with the Prince of Wales – patron of the Welsh Rugby Union – asking about the national side.
Davies admitted it has been a “tough” time for the game in Wales amid ongoing uncertainty.
“It has been rough, but it was so pleasing to see them win,” he said, referencing a recent Six Nations victory.
Tributes quickly poured in following the honour.
Former referee Nigel Owens wrote: “So deserved – a special player and an even more special human being.”
Davies himself also took to social media to thank supporters, calling it “an honour and a privilege” to be part of such an “amazing” charity team.
Rugby bodies also hailed the award, describing him as a legend whose impact “extends far beyond sport”.
From his playing days with Wales and the British & Irish Lions to a long broadcasting career, Davies has remained a constant voice in the game.
But it is his work off the field – helping families facing cancer and driving millions into vital services – that is now being recognised at the highest level.
And in true Jiffy fashion, he made clear exactly who the award belongs to.
“This is for everyone,” he said.
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Catch up on our full coverage of Jonathan Davies and his work on and off the pitch.
