The Queen has bestowed a knighthood upon choreographer Matthew Bourne.

This news has come as a great surprise to me, but I couldn’t be more thrilled and honoured to be recognised in this way,” the acclaimed theatre director said of the news.

The independent theatre practitioner has taken his male version of ‘Swan Lake’ around the world as well his production of the ballet of ‘Edward Scissorhands’ and ‘The Car Man’ – a different take on the classic Carmen.

Also relieving recognition was actress Barbara Windsor who is to become a dame, actress actress Imelda Staunton has been promoted to CBE, while actors Idris Elba (Luther, The Wire, Mandella: Long Walk to Freedom’), David Oyelowo (Spooks), and James Nesbitt (Cold Feet) will receive OBEs.

Musician Goldie was awarded an MBE for his work in music, acting and his contributions to charity.

Thirteen year old school boy Jonjo Heuerman became the youngest person to ever receive a CBE. The teenager raised over £235,000 for a bowel cancer charity after his grandmother passed away from the disease.