Dame Shirley Bassey to receive honours at Windsor Castle
Dame Shirley Bassey will be among those receiving honours during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle today
Dame Shirley Bassey will receive honours during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle today.
The Welsh singer, 87, was made a Companion of Honour in the New Year Honours list for her services to music, having previously become a dame in the 1999 honours list.
Dame Shirley, known for recording the Bond songs Diamonds Are Forever and Goldfinger, has had an album in the top 40 of the UK albums chart for the last seven decades.
The King will preside at the ceremony.
Speaking to the PA news agency after learning of her honour, she said: "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 would 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.
"My heart is full of emotion and I am truly humbled."
Also being honoured is Surrey and England cricketer Sam Curran, who was made an MBE in the 2023 Birthday Honours.
Scottish-born celebrity chef Adam Handling will also visit Windsor to be made an MBE for services to hospitality and international trade.