Oddie, Briers and Dale also honoured

Billy Connolly has been made a CBE in the Queen's birthday honours.

Other comedy names to receive awards are Bill Oddie, who receives the OBE; Carry On actor Jim Dale, now an MBE, and Richard Briers, whose CBE goes alongside his 1989 OBE,

The 69-year-old Good Life star said: "I'm absolutely delighted. It's more than 12 years ago that I picked up the OBE, so to get this is marvellous."

Former shupyard worker Connolly, who is honoured for services to entertainment, may see some familiar faces when he picks up his gong at Buckingham Palace, as he has become pals with several of the royals, especially Prince Andrew.

Jim Dale also began his career as a stand-up, but moved into films after landing a small part in 1963's Carry On Cabby. His performance was so well-received that he became a regular member of the cast.

Published: 14 Jun 2003