Aston Villa chairman Doug Ellis yesterday expressed his regret that he could not ask the Queen about Prince William's footballing loyalties when he received his OBE at Buckingham Palace.

Mr Ellis described the day as " memorable" and said he accepted the award, announced in the New Year Honours, on behalf of Villa.

The Queen's grandson, Prince William, has been spotted at Villa Park wearing the club's claret and blue colours.

However, Mr Ellis, who was recognised by the Queen for his services to football and the community, did not have time to question her on the prince's loyalties.

He said: "It was a very exciting day and it was a thrill to receive the honour from Her Majesty The Queen.

"I had a little chat and she was very gracious and I was delighted that she remembered me as a member of the FA who took the England team to the Palace after the World Cup in Japan.

"I was very proud when the citation was read out confirming the award was for services to football and the community and I received it on behalf of Aston Villa Football Club not just myself.

"When you are briefed before the ceremony, you are told not to tell the Queen your life story so I missed the chance to mention her grandson William."

Also honoured at the palace was Birmingham-born CBI boss Sir Digby Jones, who received his knighthood.