Cricket legend Sir Ian Botham, nicknamed Beefy, has been knighted for his contribution to sport and charity.

The former all-rounder described the award as "mind blowing" and said it was a day he would never forget. The 51-year-old has raised about �10m for Leukaemia Research.

Sir Ian, who was joined by his wife Kath and grandchildren Regan, 13, and James, nine, has been on many long-distance charity walks, many from John O'Groats to Land's End.

The creator of Dame Edna Everage, Barry Humphries, received a CBE. The performer, who is celebrating 50 years on the stage this year, described the ceremony as "extraordinary".

Author Barbara Taylor Bradford was made an OBE. The writer, whose books are published in more than 90 countries and in 40 languages, said she felt "very honoured and privileged".

Petty Officer James O'Donnell, based in Cornwall, received the Queen's Gallantry Medal. He helped rescue 26 crew members from the stricken cargo ship MSC Napoli off the Devon coast.