He is literally the jewel in the crown of Asian football in Oldham - and the North West.
It is a much over used cliche in the game but Jewel Miah, 39, is a genuine local legend.
Now his commitment to the game he loves has been rewarded with an MBE for voluntary services to British-Bengali football.
But when he got the letter of confirmation he thought he was his tax details.
Jewel, from Oldham, said: “I work as a civil servant, and the letter looked official, I thought it was my P60. On the day that I got it I was taking a team of veterans to a tournament in London - which was nice timing.
“It is a big shock. I didn’t realise what I was doing was voluntary work. I have just been doing something I have enjoyed since being a kid.”
He has been involved in the Bangladeshi community since his teens and has immense respect as a player, manager, and mentor for young people.
He has also organised tournaments involving Asian teams from around the UK.
Jewel was born and raised in Glodwick, the scene of intense rioting in 2001.
He played a key role in introducing junior football in the district through his chairmanship of Red Star Bengal FC.
He has been successful in using football to divert teenagers away from drugs, violence, and anti-social behaviour, and is seen as a role model by young people in the Asian community.
Each year he organises the national Asian Football Tournament in Oldham. Since 1994 he has done work with the Glodwick Bangladeshi Youth Association.
He is also chairman of the Oldham Veterans Community Foundation.
A Manchester United fan, his own hero was Reds captain Bryan Robson. Jewel said: “Some have said my tackling was a bit like his.”
“I am delighted and proud at the same time to receive this honour in recognition of my contribution to ‘British Bangladeshi Football’ and for bringing communities together through football, as well as using my knowledge and experience to help break barriers.
“I’ve never dreamt of receiving such an award, but nothing would have been possible without the support of my family and close friends. I would also like to mark my appreciation of my family for their support and understanding during my regular absences from home. I would like to take this opportunity to recognise the often unsung contribution made by my fellow players, volunteers and coaches toward clubs and voluntary organisations.
“The community has always been supportive and appreciative of my voluntary work and they will be extremely proud and happy for me when they find out about the honours award.
“I’m still pinching my myself - as I still can’t believe that I’m about to receive an honour for something which I’ve always enjoyed doing for over 20 years.”
