Adele leads the lineup of stars receiving the Queen's Birthday Honours this year. The singer, 25, whose musical career has skyrocketed since she began at just 18, has received an MBE from the Queen for her services to music.Although she has yet to make an official comment on the honour, Adele will no doubt be thrilled to add yet another accolade to her vast collection of BRIT awards, Grammys, and most recently an Oscar for her James Bond theme song, Skyfall.
Joining mum-of-one Adele on the Birthday Honours list are sports presenter Clare Balding, entrepreneur and star of Dragons' Den Hilary Devey, singer PJ Harvey, Mr Bean actor Rowan Atkinson and his Blackadder co-star Tony Robinson, who will a receive a knighthood for his public and political service.
"I'm thrilled, flattered and a little gob-smacked," said London-born Tony, 66. "I'll use my new title with abandon to highlight the causes I believe in." he added in reference to his work with the Labour party and political campaigns including Make Poverty History. "It came as a genuine surprise and is a great honour," said Rowan Atkinson, who starred alongside Tony in the Blackadder series for over six years, on receiving his CBE.Clare Balding, whose work presenting the London 2012 Olympics was highly praised last year, received an OBE for her services to broadcasting and journalism.
"It has been a year of unexpected delights," commented Clare enthusiastically. "This is the pinnacle." Gavin and Stacey actor Rob Brydon was also honoured this year. The comedian and actor was also awarded an MBE for his services to comedy, broadcasting and charitable services. "This is a great honour and an even greater surprise," said Rob enthusiastically. "I accept it not just for me but for short Welshmen everywhere," he joked.