Shearer is more well-known around England for his footballing career but his services following retirement go far beyond holding the all-time record for goals in the Premier League, with 260, and regularly appearing on Match of the Day.
The former England captain, who scored 30 goals in 63 caps, has been handed a CBE by the Queen for ‘charitable services to the community in North East England’.
Shearer has said that he’s ‘delighted’ with the recognition but surprised to hear the news.
“Yeah it was a huge surprise,” Shearer told BBC Sport. “I’ve had to keep it quiet for a couple of months but I’m very honoured and delighted. It’s been hard work keeping it quiet from the rest of my family and friends but it’s great and I’m absolutely delighted with it.
“I’m so surprised to get it through the post but it’s not just myself, it’s a lot of hard work that goes on with my particular charity: The Alan Shearer Centre in Newcastle which a lot of it has been for that so I’m absolutely delighted.”
He also added that once his playing days were over, Shearer wanted to give back to the community, unlike many modern-day footballers.
“I had to give something back. Footballers get a lot of criticism nowadays for not giving something back. I had my testimonial in 2006 and gave that money away to set up my foundation and it’s gone on from strength to strength.
“I was determined not to just hand the money over and say, ‘there you go, go and do something with it’. I wanted to take an active part in it and help run it, as I do. It’s great to be involved with.”
The Alan Shearer Centre provides accommodation and care for disabled people and offers short-stay breaks and full-time accommodation for people in need of support.