The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Arise Sir Ringo and Barry as stars become knights
Bee Gees and Beatles legends thrilled to be awarded new titles
The Beatles’ Ringo Starr and Bee Gees co-founder Barry Gibb have been awarded knighthoods in the New Year Honours, alongside a string of political figures including former Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg.
Gibb, 71, who is recognised for his services to music and charity, dedicated the honour to his late brothers and former bandmates and said: “The magic, the glow and the rush will last me the rest of my life.”
The musicians are joined on the list by Strictly Come Dancing judge Darcey Bussell, 48, who said she was “truly humbled” to become a dame for services to dance and War Horse author Michael Morpurgo, who is knighted for services to literature and charity.
In a short message, signed off with his trademark phrase, 77-year-old Starr said: “It’s great! It’s an honour and a pleasure to be considered and acknowledged for my music and my charity work, both of which I love. Peace and love. Ringo.”
Morpurgo, 74, who previously received an OBE, said he had Joey, the equine character from the 1982 children’s book which became a hit international play, to thank for his knighthood.
Gibb, the last surviving member of the Bee Gees, said he was “deeply honoured, humbled and very proud” to be recognised, adding: “This is a moment in life to be treasured and never forgotten.
Details of the knighthood of former deputy prime minister and prominent Remain campaigner Sir Nick, 50, were also the subject of early newspaper reports. His award has provoked criticism among some Brexiteers.
There are no honours for those involved in the response to recent terror attacks or the Grenfell Tower fire which left 71 people dead.
However, the Cabinet Office said they are expected to be recognised in future honour lists.
Grime gets a “shout-out” on this year’s list, with Richard Cowie, aka Wiley, receiving an MBE for services to music.
Wiley, 38, who has been described as the “godfather of Grime” and a pioneer of the underground scene, said: “It feels like the school grade I wanted and didn’t get but now I’m finally there.”
Author and journalist Jilly Cooper is recognised for services to literature and charity, and chef Rick Stein for services to the economy. All have their OBEs upgraded to CBEs.