Edwards, a scrum half, is regarded by many as the greatest player to pull on the Wales jersey, while Sergeant stepped down from his role as Millennium Stadium chief executive earlier this month to move to Australia.

"On behalf of Welsh Rugby I would like to offer my heartiest congratulations to both Gareth and Paul for receiving honours in the New Year List," said WRU chief executive Roger Lewis.

"They are thoroughly deserved and bring great honour not only to themselves and their families, but also to Welsh rugby.

"Gareth has long been considered one of the greatest rugby players of all time and is an icon within our game.

"Since finishing playing he has continued to hit the headlines with his work in business and charity and a CBE is just reward for his continued contribution to Welsh life.

"Paul's OBE is a tribute to his great work at the Millennium Stadium over the past three-and-a-half years.

It will provide him with a marvellous send-off as he prepares for a new life down under with his family."

Sergeant added: "This is one of those things you never expect to happen to you and is a humbling experience.

It is testimony to the hard work of the management team and all those involved with the Millennium Stadium who have made things work during what has been an immensely satisfying, albeit often stressful, time."