MasterChef judges, Clare Balding and more land Queen's birthday honours
MasterChef judges John Torode and Gregg Wallace, broadcaster Clare Balding and Homeland's Damien Lewis are among those who have been named in the Queen's Birthday Honours list.
Ahead of the Queen's official birthday in two weeks, the honours list has been announced to coincide with Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee – a celebration marking the 70th anniversary of her reign.
As well as awards for Coronation Street stars Helen Worth and Antony Cotton – AKA Gail Platt and Sean Tully – famous faces from across the worlds of entertainment and sport have also been recognised for their service.
Both Clare Balding and Damien Lewis have been awarded a CBE, with Lewis recognised for his services to drama and charity work.
The actor, who was married to late Peaky Blinders star Helen McCrory, launched the campaign Feed NHS, which raised £1 million for NHS workers during the pandemic.
Meanwhile, Masterchef icons John and Gregg will become Members of the Order of the British Empire, with the list acknowledging their services to food and charity (and telly, we're sure).
Reacting to the news, Gregg said: "From a council estate in Peckham to being recognised by the Queen is for me something akin to a fairytale story.
"I am incredibly, incredibly proud."
Over in soapland, Helen Worth and Anthony Cotton have also been celebrating the news of their accolades.
"It was a huge surprise to learn that I had been nominated for an MBE," Helen said.
"To be honoured for doing something I have enjoyed so much for so many years is truly wonderful, and I am particularly delighted to receive this award in the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Year."
The Queen's Birthday Honours recognise people who have "made achievements in public life" and "committed themselves to serving and helping Britain", the BBC explains.
Any member of the public, or an official body, can nominate someone for an honour.
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