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Colin Firth, already enjoying an Oscar-winning year, has been appointed a CBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours.

The actor, who won an Oscar for playing King George VI in the King's Speech, was recognised for services to drama.

It comes 16 years after he achieved heart-throb status as Jane Austen's brooding hero, Mr Darcy, in the BBC TV adaptation of Pride And Prejudice.

His other films include Bridget Jones's Diary, Fever Pitch and the Abba-themed movie musical Mamma Mia.

Firth also picked up a Bafta and numerous other awards for portraying the Queen's father in the King's Speech. The monarch herself may now present him with a CBE medal at a future Buckingham Palace investiture.

Radio 4 Woman's Hour presenter Jenni Murray and veteran actress Janet Suzman were both made dames in the honours list.

And Strictly Come Dancing host Bruce Forsyth received a knighthood for services to entertainment and charity.