Ronnie Corbett: I'll treasure my CBE

Comedian Ronnie Corbett spoke of his delight at receiving the CBE from the Queen at Buckingham Palace today.

The veteran comic admired his medal - which matched his blue and pink striped tie - saying: "It's very pretty. It's a very lovely honour. I shall treasure it."

The 81-year-old exchanged a few words with the Queen in the ballroom, but said she had not admitted to having a favourite of his shows, which include the classic The Two Ronnies.

Corbett, from Edinburgh, said: "She told me 'You make people laugh'. I think she's remarkable for her age."

The 5ft 1in star said he was in good health after collapsing at a dinner last month to celebrate being recognised in the New Year's Honours List for his services to charity and the entertainment industry.

He said he had accidentally taken too much of his medication for high blood pressure, and added: "I collapsed because of low blood pressure. It was one of those rare accidents.

"You take so many tablets these days."

Corbett said he planned to make up for cutting short the earlier meal by having a special lunch with friends today, but revealed that his wife Anne is currently in hospital with pneumonia.

He said he was keeping busy with work and added: "There's always something going on."

The sketch show veteran has been involved with many charities, including the RNLI and the Variety Club.

PA