The British establishment has unveiled its annual year-end honours, lavishing recognition on a host of talent from the entertainment firmament.

Kristin Scott Thomas, a resident of France, is made a dame. She earned an OBE in 2003 and is about to assume the role of the Queen in stage play The Audience.

Emily Watson, James Cordon and Sheridan Smith get OBE’s and Meera Syal is named MBE.

The knighthood for John Hurt and damehood for Joan Collins were among several honours leaked a few days ago.