Sports Personality: Sir Alex Ferguson's BBC Diamond award

Former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was given a special BBC Sports Personality Diamond Award during the show's 60th edition on Sunday.

The Scot, 71, retired in May after 26 years as manager at Old Trafford.

Ferguson won 38 trophies during his time at the club, including 13 league titles, two Champions League crowns, five FA Cups and four League Cups.

"This is a wonderful honour for me. Thanks to the BBC and everyone for this award," said Ferguson.

"I've had a great life, a great career. I'm still busy. I've not gone away but, you know something, I picked the right time (to retire) as 27 years in this industry is very difficult.

"Once again thanks very much."

Ferguson stood down after helping United secure the 2012-13 Premier League title, with fellow Scot David Moyes taking over.

Barbara Slater, director of BBC Sport, said: "Sir Alex's achievements are unique.

"We want to honour and recognise this by celebrating his final incredible year as a manager with this special award."

Slater added: "Sir Alex Ferguson won the Sports Personality Lifetime Achievement award in 2001 after claiming some of the most sought-after trophies in the football world.

"The fact that his success continued for a further decade and more afterwards makes his achievements all the more remarkable. He is someone who has earned the respect of so many both in and outside of football, regardless of their footballing allegiances."

Ferguson's 13th league title at United was the latest chapter in a career which had earlier seen him lead Aberdeen to unprecedented success, including victory in the European Cup Winners' Cup.

He retired after more than 1,500 matches in charge at Old Trafford, 14 years after the unique 1999 Treble of Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League wins, and remains at the club as a director.

In addition to all the silverware, he is credited with developing the careers of famous talents, such as David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs.