THE SHIRL DONE GOOD

Grand old dame leads the way and Glasto founder GOT favourite & roll call of heroes celebrated

- LUCAS CUMISKEY

SINGER Dame Shirley Bassey, DJ Tony Blackburn and Bake Off's Paul Hollywood are among the stars of sport, stage and screen recognised in the New Year Honours list.

Shirley, who has sold more than 135 million records, is made a Companion of Honour for her services to music.

The Goldfinger star, who was born and grew up in Tiger Bay in Cardiff, said: "My heart is full of emotion and I am truly humbled.

The 86-year-old, who became a dame in the 1999 honours list, added: "Receiving the Order of the Companions of Honour is just one of the most wonderful feelings.

"Music has been a constant companion in my life. As a little girl growing up in Tiger Bay, I'd dream of travelling the world and never imagined that one day, my voice would take me to where I am now.

"Every step of my career has been about taking that chance, believing in myself and making that leap.

"I live to sing and love to perform.

Entertaining audiences for over 70 years has been a privilege." Director and producer Sir Ridley Scott, whose works include Gladiator, Alien and Napoleon, is made a Knight Grand Cross, upgrading his knighthood, while author Jilly Cooper becomes a Dame Commander.

She said: "I am absolutely bowled over. I cannot believe I am a DBE.

Veteran DJ Tony Blackburn branded his OBE "the icing on a very lovely cake" after learning of his award.

Blackburn, the first DJ on Radio 1 when it launched in 1967, said: "It really is the best job and to receive this award is the icing on a very lovely cake." He was honoured for his services to broadcasting and charity.