His hard-work and dedication culminated in the 'concert of the decade'. And Gary Barlow's spectacular efforts masterminding the Diamond Jubilee's musical celebration have not gone unrecognised.The Queen has made him an OBE in her Birthday Honours list.In a statement, the delighted father-of-four said he felt "absolutely thrilled" and "very privileged to be in the company of so many brilliant people who I know have received an OBE.
"Growing up I never dreamt that one day I'd be getting one myself," he said. "I enjoy every minute of the work I do, with a lot of it being a reward in itself, so for somebody to decide I should get recognised for that is just amazing. My family are very proud. "Gary, 41, began his music career more than 20 years ago, and has found worldwide success with Take That, one of Britain's biggest pop groups.He is also one of the UK's most successful songwriters, and in recent years has become increasingly known for his charity work and TV appearances, including judging The X Factor.Also receiving royal recognition is Oscar-winning actress Kate Winslet.
The 36-year-old has said she is "both surprised and honoured" to become a CBE for her services to drama and stand alongside those "who have achieved great things for our country"."This makes me very proud to be a Brit," she said.Acclaimed actor and director Kenneth Brannagh meanwhile is to become a Sir.The Wallender star is being honoured with a knighthood for his services to drama and community.He told the BBC, he felt "very happy, very grateful and delighted"."It would be an amazing thing at any time," said the humbled Belfast-born thespian. "In the Jubilee year, I'm sure anybody else that's had the good fortune to be recognised would feel as I do. Very, very special."
Sarah Burton, the designer behind the Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding dress, is also be celebrating this week with the news she is being appointed OBE for services to fashion.Jenny Agutter has also received an OBE for her charity work while New Tricks colleague Amanda Redman becomes an MBE.The Woman In Black author Susan Hill is honoured with a CBE as is renowned cookery writer and The Great British Bake-Off judge, Mary Berry.In total, 1,202 people from the worlds of entertainment, the arts, politics, sport, science, education and the public services have been named in the 2012 Birthday Honours list.