CBE honors for Suchet, Hancock

LONDON, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- TV stars David Suchet and Sheila Hancock were among those honored with the Commander of the British Empire title by Queen Elizabeth II, officials said.

Suchet, 64, is best known for his portrayal of the titular Belgian detective in the long-running series "Poirot," based on Agatha Christie's mystery novels.

Hancock, 77, was seen this year in the stage musical "Sister Act."

"It is lovely, really lovely," the BBC quoted the actress as saying Friday. "I'm surprised how pleased I am.

"I got a letter saying the Prime Minister's office was going to ask the Queen to consider me and I immediately thought she would say 'no.'"

The British broadcaster said record producer Trevor Horn, sculptor Richard Wentworth and dance choreographer Wayne McGregor also were appointed CBEs.

Author Antonia Fraser was made a dame for services to literature and actress Harriet Walter earned the distinction of dame for services to drama, while musician Richard Thompson and "Les Miserables" lyricist Herbert Kretzmer were appointed Officers of the British Empire, the BBC said.