Idris Elba has been knighted for his campaigning against knife crime, the New Year Honours list has revealed. The actor, best known for roles in Luther and The Wire, said he accepted the honour on behalf of the 'many young people' at his Elba Hope Foundation who inspire his work. He added: 'I hope we can do more to draw attention to the importance of sustained, practical support for young people.'
Ice skating legends Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean have been made a Dame and a Knight respectively for services to ice skating and voluntary service. The pair, who won Olympic gold in 1984, said they were 'humbled' by the awards. Dame Jayne called the timing 'perfect' as they completed their final tour earlier this year.
The Lionesses were heavily recognised after their second Euros win, with manager Sarina Wiegman awarded an honorary damehood. Captain Leah Williamson received a CBE, while teammates Alex Greenwood, Keira Walsh, Georgia Stanway and Ella Toone were made MBEs. Wiegman said: 'When I first arrived in England, I could never have imagined the respect and warmth I've experienced.'
Other celebrities honoured include comedian Matt Lucas (OBE), singer Ellie Goulding (MBE), and broadcaster Gabby Logan (OBE). Harvey Weinstein's former PA Zelda Perkins received a CBE for services to social justice. Actor Warwick Davis and property expert Phil Spencer were both made OBEs, while writer Roy Clarke, creator of Last of the Summer Wine, becomes a knight.
