Marcus Rashford and Robbie Williams lead the list of famous faces tipped to receive New Years Honours later this month, according to a bookmaker.
In a recent survey carried out by Ladbrokes LIVE, participants revealed they would most like to see Manchester United and England footballer Rashford recognised further for his services to vulnerable children in the UK after he campaigned for free school meals. And Robbie, who released album XXV earlier this year - marking 25 years in the entertainment business - is a popular choice to be honoured for his services to popular music.
Elsewhere, another 2023 documentary maker in the form of David Beckham, was the joint-second most popular choice to be knighted, alongside outgoing James Bond star, Daniel Craig. Completing the top five are England manager Gareth Southgate and BBC broadcaster, Louis Theroux.
The only female in the top 10, England footballer Mary Earps was selected by 9% of those taking part in the survey - the same figure receievd by cricketer Stuart Broad, TV adventurer Bear Grylls, and former UKIP leader and I'm A Celebrity contestant Nigel Farage.
Rashford was previously awarded an MBE by Prince William in November 2021 at a ceremony at Windsor Castle. The 26-year old became a national hero in 2020 after successfully lobbying the Government into a U-turn over its free school meals policy during the coronavirus lockdowns - ensuring children received meals across the summer, outside of term time.
Man Utd's January transfer window winners and losers as 'new Scholes' makes exitHe said at the time: "I’m incredibly honoured and humbled. As a young black man from Wythenshawe, never did I think I would be accepting an MBE, never mind an MBE at the age of 22. This is a very special moment for myself and my family, but particularly my mum who is the real deserving recipient of the honour."
Back in 2019 a decision to award former Take That star Robbie an OBE was overturned after it was deemed he had used a controversial investment scheme. The senior HMRC civil servant who informed the honours committee of its decision suggested the star only had himself to blame. "If you do not pay your dues to the Athenaeum you cannot expect to enjoy the benefits," the official reportedly said.
On Friday, meanwhile, it was revealed that rugby stars Kevin Sinfield and Rob Burrow are due to be named CBEs in recognition of their stunning fundraising efforts. The pair have been working closely over the last few years to raise awareness and funds dedicated to motor neurone disease.
UK top picks to be knighted in New Year Honours List (% of votes)
Marcus Rashford (15%)
David Beckham (12%)
Daniel Craig (12%)
Gareth Southgate (11%)
Louis Theroux (10%)
Stuart Broad (9%)
Man Utd predicted line-up vs Nottingham Forest as Ten Hag eyes Carabao Cup finalMary Earps (9%)
Bear Grylls (9%)
Robbie Williams (9%)
Nigel Farage (9%)
*Survey commissioned by Ladbrokes Live asked 1,506 adults 28th November 2023
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