Rock legend Eric Clapton has been named, alongside TV presenter Chris Tarrant and the entire England rugby team, on the New Year's Honours list. The 58-year-old musician follows in the footsteps of Elton John and Mick Jagger by receiving an honour for his services to music. He will be awarded a CBE.
Chris Tarrant, who is best-known for presenting the hit game show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?, is being recognised for the large sums of money he has raised for charity. "I'm deeply honoured and I've been very lucky," said the 57-year-old after hearing the news that he is to be granted an OBE. "I do what I do because I love it, but to be recognised for my work both professionally and privately is very humbling."
And tennis star Tim Henman, who is also to receive an OBE, meanwhile declared that he would collect his medal "with a massive amount of pride". He wasn't the only athlete to make the list, as all the members of England's World Cup winning rugby team also got the nod.
Most of the team will get MBEs, while Jonny Wilkinson and Jason Leonard, who already have MBEs, will be upgraded to OBEs. Coach Clive Woodword, meanwhile, is to receive a knighthood.
"I am honoured and delighted," said the 48-year-old. "However it is also a tribute to every member of the squad."
Other celebs who are to receive medals in 2004 include actor Pete Postlethwaite, who appeared in The Usual Suspects, and The Hours director Stephen Daldry.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
