Magical moment for JK as one honour is transformed into two
IT is an honour usually bestowed upon veteran politicians, diplomats and scientists.
But Harry Potter author JK Rowling brought a touch of magic to Buckingham Palace yesterday as she was made a Companion of Honour.
The 52-year-old became the only female author to receive the rare award, which recognises services of national importance.
Miss Rowling, who is also marking two decades since the publication of the first book in her best-selling series, was honoured for services to literature and philanthropy.
The author, who was awarded an OBE 16 years ago, said yesterday: ‘To be included in the distinguished and diversely talented company of the other Companions of Honour, espe- cially as a female writer, is a particular privilege.’
Miss Rowling was accompanied at the Palace ceremony by her doctor husband Neil Murray.
Only 65 people can be members of the Order of the Companions of Honour, which was established in 1917 by George V. Other Companions include Sir Michael Howard, Sir Menzies Campbell, Sir David Attenborough and Baroness Valerie Amos, the former British High Commissioner to Australia.
Miss Rowling was made a Companion of Honour alongside cookery expert Delia Smith, who received her award in a ceremony last month.
Former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney and designer Sir Terence Conran will also join Miss Rowling in the Order but have yet to formally receive their honours.
Earlier this year, it emerged that she is now the world’s top paid author, with annual earnings of £72,183,000, ahead of Dan Brown, Stephen King and John Grisham.
‘A particular privilege’