With 2016 just around the corner, the Queen’s New Year Honours list has just been announced.
Amongst those receiving an honour is ‘Luther’ star Idris Elba, who will be made an OBE for his services to Drama. The actor said, “Awards and honours come in all shapes and sizes and all as significant as the other. But this is beyond special as it comes from Queen and country, and I couldn’t be more proud for receiving this right now. What a year. On me head son!”
Other famous faces to receive OBE’s include Blur singer Damon Albarn for services to music, and presenter Sue Barker for services to broadcasting and charity.
Barbara Windsor, best known for her roles in ‘EastEnders’ and the ‘Carry On’ films, will be given a damehood for her services to charity and entertainment. Of the honour, Windsor said “I am so happy and blessed to say it’s real.” Stage and film actress Sian Philips will also be given a damehood for her services to drama.
Several sports personalities including champion jockey AP McCoy, England Ladies football captain Steph Houghton, cyclist Chris Froome and snooker player Ronnie O’Sullivan have also been given various honours.
In total, 1196 people have been given an honour, with 76% of recipients being awarded for their services to the community. This includes 13-year-old Jonjo Heuerman and 99-year-old Dorothy Start who are the respectively the youngest and oldest recipients, awarded for their incredible charity and community work.
Congratulations to all who have received an honour! You can view the full list of honours here.