Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi, DJ Carl Cox and singer Cerys Matthews have been named in the King’s Birthday Honours list. The annual list recognises contributions across the arts, public services and charity. Several other figures from music, literature and animation also received honours.
Iommi has been awarded an MBE for services to music and charity. Cox, who has been a leading figure in UK club culture for four decades, receives an OBE. Matthews, formerly of the band Catatonia and a BBC radio presenter, is made an OBE; she had previously received an MBE in 2014.
DJ Judge Jules is also recognised with an MBE. Actor Helen Mirren becomes a Companion of Honour. Children’s authors Julia Donaldson and Malorie Blackman, along with Aardman Animations founders Peter Lord and David Sproxton, appear on the list.
Cox said he was “absolutely thrilled and deeply honoured” and added that the recognition belonged to “everyone who has been part of the journey”. Iommi wrote on social media that he was grateful for the support of fans and colleagues over the years.
