King Charles has presented Strictly Come Dancing host Tess Daly with the “greatest honour” of her career.
The television star, 56, was made an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours for services to broadcasting.
She was accompanied by her husband, fellow presenter Vernon Kay, at Windsor Castle on Wednesday.
Last month, Ms Daly and her long-time Strictly co-host Claudia Winkleman announced they would be leaving the BBC show after its Christmas special. Ms Daly discussed how His Majesty put her “at ease” during the ceremony.
The King put Tess Daly ‘at ease’ during the presentation
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She said: “This is probably the greatest honour of my career and it still feels quite surreal to be honest with you.
“I’ve been working in television for 25 years, and it’s a job I absolutely love to do.
“It was a real privilege to be in a room of people who have made a difference in their communities, who have built incredible careers. It was a very inspiring environment.”
Ms Daly explained that she “was quite nervous” meeting the King, 76, as the pair discussed Strictly and how Queen Camilla enjoys it.
Tess Daly received an MBE for her services to broadcasting
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Ms Daley continued: “She (Camilla) sent me a letter of congratulations when I received the MBE, which meant the world.
“He (Charles) thanked me for the work I have done for his charity as well, the King’s Trust. We talked about the funds that it’s raised and how many young people’s lives this has made a huge difference to, and I’m very proud to be an ambassador of this charity.
“It’s just incredible to be welcomed into a royal residence by a member of the royal family, the King, no less, and to have such an honour bestowed upon you is something that you don’t take lightly.
“I will never forget this day for the rest of my life. It’s for my family as much as it is for myself. If I could dedicate it to anyone, I would dedicate it to my late dad because he’d be so proud of his daughter meeting the King, in a castle.”
The King and Ms Daly discussed about how the Queen likes Strictly
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Discussing her upcoming departure from Strictly, she said: “I love the show, it’s wonderful and it’s just fantastic to have worked on it for as many years as I have.
“It’s been such a great opportunity to work with incredibly talented people. Obviously, for me, there’s no show like it.
“I will miss it but I’m quite looking forward to a lie-in on Saturday morning – and new ventures in the new year.”
Ms Daly explained that she has “no idea” who will replace her, but will be “watching at home with Claudia”.
EastEnders actress Anita Dobson received an OBE from the King
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EastEnders actress Anita Dobson, 76, also received an OBE from the King, admitting she was in tears upon being recognised.
Speaking to ITV’s This Morning, Ms Dobson said: “It was overwhelming. Windsor Castle is stunningly beautiful and full of history, as you know, and I did well up just before I walked on to get my OBE.”
The wife of Queen star Brian May described the King as “lovely” and “charming”, with the music legend saying: “Lady May OBE! Otherwise known as Anita Dobson. Just minutes after being presented with her honour by King Charles at Windsor Castle today. I am in proud support! Bri.”
The Shadow Secretary of State for Levelling Up, James Cleverly, 56, was also amongst the awards, receiving a knighthood.