Arthur star Dudley Moore joins an eclectic mix of sportsmen and celebrities on Queen Elizabeth’s Birthday Honours list as he receives the Commander of the British Empire (CBE) award for both his comedic genius and inspirational charity work. Flamboyant designer John Galliano also made the cut, as did racing driver Jackie Stewart, who was knighted alongside flautist extraordinaire James Galway.
Dudley, who is suffering from a degenerative brain disease, was thrilled with the news. “I am very grateful to receive this award and this recognition of my work,” said Dudley. “I shall look forward to meeting the Queen so that I can thank her personally.”
Sixty-two-year-old Sir Jackie, who received an OBE in 1972, is a three-time world champion and the most successful British Formula One driver in history. “It has been 28 years since I stopped racing and I hope that this is also recognition for the contribution to the sport that I have made over that time, too,” he said of the prestigious award.
Others lauded include BAFTA-winning actress Pauline Collins of Shirley Valentine fame, The English Patient director and Oscar winner Anthony Minghella, Dame Eileen Atkins, and Ellen MacArthur, who came to fame in the 2000 Vendee Globe round-the-world sailing race.
“I am thrilled to be deemed worthy of such an honour,” says the 24-year-old sailor. “I accept it on behalf of my team and all those that have helped us achieve success. I couldn’t have done it alone. It is a great honour to receive such an accolade from one’s country and I am delighted that the sport of sailing has been recognized.”
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
