TV royalty Barbara Windsor and James Nesbitt were among the stars who received honours at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday. The Carry On actress was made a Dame for her services to charity and entertainment, while the actor was appointed an OBE for his services to drama and to the community in Northern Ireland.
The Queen was in charge of proceedings and spoke to both stars as they collected their medals at the investiture ceremony.
Barbara, 78, was her usual cheery self as she spoke to Her Majesty and shook hands with her, later joking to reporters that it was lovely to meet "another small lady".
© Photo: PABarbara Windsor joked that it was lovely to meet "another small lady"
The EastEnders favourite, who was appointed an MBE in 2000, also said she was impressed by the Queen's "gorgeous skin" and quipped: "I wonder what she uses."
Barbara was being recognised for her services to charity. She is an ambassador for Age UK and regularly supports the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal with Prince Harry.
© Photo: PAThe actress was made a Dame for her services to charity and entertainment
When she found out that she was being made a Dame, the soap star said: "For a girl from the East End born into a working class family and an evacuee during World War Two, this is truly like a dream. I am so happy and blessed to say it's real."
Later on Tuesday Barbara celebrated her achievement at Fortnum & Mason where a special lunch was thrown in her honour. The actress looked resplendent, wearing a purple lace dress and matching fascinator.
© Photo: Getty ImagesJames Nesbitt said he was "thrilled" to receive an OBE from the Queen
Meanwhile The Hobbit star James was praised for his services to acting and community work in Northern Ireland. The Irishman, who has helped families affected by the Troubles, said it was "really rather gratifying" to have his charity work recognised.
Receiving his OBE from the Queen, James said he was "thrilled" and that it was a "nice day out" for himself and his daughters Peggy and Mary.
The actor separated from his wife of 19 years and the mother of his children, Sonia Forbes-Adam, in 2013.
