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News reader George Alagiah after collecting his OBE from the Queen. Photo: Fiona Hanson/WPA rota/PA Wire

News reader George Alagiah has been awarded an OBE for services to journalism.

And the former BBC foreign correspondent said afterwards that meeting the Queen at Buckingham Palace was more nerve-wracking than presenting the news.

Mr Alagiah, 52, who moved to the UK from Sri Lanka at the age of 11, said he felt "hugely honoured" by the award.

He said: "I think because there is history behind all of this and when you think of all the other people who have been given the awards.

"I never expected to get one. It was a complete surprise.

"I'm an immigrant and I came to this country when I was 11.

"To be accepted and honoured in this way by my adopted country is an absolute privilege.

"I think I was more nervous than when I read the 10 o'clock news."

2:53pm Wednesday 5th March 2008

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