O'Connor, Brown honoured by Queen

Des O'Connor and EastEnders actress June Brown are among the showbiz stars in the Queen's Birthday Honours list.

Comedienne Victoria Wood, TV host Paul O'Grady and Doctor Who executive producer Russell T. Davies were also honoured.

O'Connor, 76, said he was surprised by the award, admitting: "I haven't done a day's work in my life."

His TV credits include Des O'Connor Tonight, Take Your Pick and Today With Des And Mel.

Brown, who plays laundry worker Dot Cotton in the BBC soap, claimed it was "lovely" to be recognised with the award.

Former co-star Leslie Grantham reportedly recommended the actress for the MBE.