Many Sunderland fans have been left buzzing over some news which has emerged involving Gary Bennett.
Writing in his latest piece for The Chronicle, James Hunter has shared the news that the Black Cats legend has been given an MBE in the New Year's Honours List for his work in combatting racism in football.
He has been working over the last 25 years with the anti-racism charity Show Racism the Red Card and has now been given the honour for his services.
A true Black Cats legend, Bennett is a former captain of the club and is currently their third-highest outfield appearance maker, having played in 443 games over the course of 11 years on Wearside.
He still lives in Sunderland and was an 'immensely popular' figure, being 'influential' in ending racist chants at Roker Park.
Sunderland fans on Bennett news
These Sunderland supporters were buzzing as the news was shared on Twitter, with one fan describing it as 'tremendous':
"That's absolutely fantastic news."
"Yes! Love this!"
"Brilliant news for Benno, very well deserved."
"Absolutely amazing!"
"Unreal, fair play Benno"
"Tremendous. What a boy."
In other news, find out what transfer news has left these Black Cats fans buzzing