'Dr Everton' Receives OBE

Evertonian Dr David France received his OBE on Friday.

Dr France received the accolade for services to football after being named in the Queen's new year's honours list.

Affectionately known as Dr Everton, he was responsible for founding the ground-breaking Everton Former Players Foundation, an organisation which lead the way in provision of care and support for ex-professionals.

He received the OBE from Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace.

Since its inauguration the EFPF model has been adopted by some of Europe's biggest clubs, including Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.

Dr France was also recognised for bringing football history to wide audiences.

He was personally responsible for gathering a vast collection of Merseyside football memorabilia, often travelling from his North American home to secure key items.

His collection was the foundation for the unparalleled archive now known as the Everton Collection - the creation of which was spearheaded by Dr France.

His passion for Everton history has also seen him publish a number of books.

Everton congratulates Dr France for his recognition and thanks him for all his positive work.