Atkinson in one of Black Adder's numerous incarnations

Curtis was unable to attend the RTS's official annual entrance ceremony hosted on Wednesday.

But there to receive their honours - from news presenter Angela Rippon - were legendary BBC sports commentator Harry Carpenter and Channel 4's 15-1 host William G Stewart.

Curtis, 44, has been at the forefront of comedy writing for two decades.

Film

He scripted hit Eighties BBC comedy sketch show Not The Nine O'Clock News - the show which made comedian Rowan Atkinson famous.

Then, continuing his successful working relationship with Atkinson, he wrote the four series of Blackadder and later Mr Bean, in which Atkinson both starred.

William G Stewart - with his wife Laura - has worked extensively in TV

However, Curtis' comedy skills have not been confined to TV.

In film, he has had similar achievements with British box office smashes Four Weddings And A Funeral and, more recently, Notting Hill.

He is also written the script for the much-anticipated movie Bridget Jones' Diary - adapted from Helen Fielding's best-selling book.

Carpenter is best known for his boxing commentaries and his 10-year stint on BBC One's Sportsnight programme. He retired from the Corporation six years ago.

Stewart has become a familiar face because of his popular Channel 4 quiz show.

However, he has also been active behind the scenes, directing legendary comics Reg Varney, Sid James and Eric Sykes.

He also produced shows like Family Fortunes and the Price is Right.