It was a day filled with recognition, pride, and emotional reflections as some of Britain’s most influential figures were honoured at Buckingham Palace.
From politicians to authors and sports legends, the palace ceremony turned into a celebration of decades of dedication to public service, literature, sports, and national heritage.
Among those stepping into the royal spotlight was London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who received one of the country’s highest honours—and it was a moment he’ll never forget.
Sadiq Khan Receives His Knighthood from King Charles
On Tuesday, Sadiq Khan officially became Sir Sadiq, receiving his knighthood from King Charles during a ceremony at Buckingham Palace.
The 54-year-old Labour mayor, who made history by winning a third term earlier this year, was recognised for his political and public service.
After being honoured, Khan reflected on just how far he’d come—from growing up on a council estate in Tooting to receiving a knighthood from the monarch.
A Humbling Moment for London’s Longest-Serving Mayor
Taking to social media after the event, Sir Sadiq shared his gratitude and humility.
In a heartfelt message, he wrote:
“Immensely proud to receive a knighthood from His Majesty The King today.
Growing up on a council estate in Tooting, I never could have imagined that I’d one day receive this great honour while serving as the Mayor of London.”
He added that the moment was not just meaningful for him and his family—but also a symbol of what’s possible in a city like London.
His message to others was simple but powerful: work hard, aim high, and you can achieve anything.
Dame Jacqueline Wilson Honoured for Her Literary Legacy
Another celebrated guest at the ceremony was author Dame Jacqueline Wilson.
The beloved creator of Tracy Beaker was formally made a Dame Grand Cross at age 79 for her contribution to literature.
Known for shaping generations of young readers with titles like Candyfloss and Double Act, she continues to write with passion.
Last year, she surprised fans with her return to adult fiction, releasing Think Again, her first adult novel in decades.
It was well-received and even earned a nomination at the British Book Awards.
Rugby Legend Billy Boston Makes History Again
Billy Boston, now 90, was also among the honourees, receiving long-awaited recognition for his extraordinary career in rugby league.
Having scored an incredible 478 tries in just 488 matches for Wigan, Boston was finally knighted—making him the first rugby league player to ever receive the title.
Boston, who has spoken publicly about his battle with vascular dementia, broke racial barriers in sport when he became the first non-white player selected for a Great Britain Lions tour in 1954.
His record-breaking performances in Australia and New Zealand left a lasting legacy in the sport.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy praised the knighthood as “long overdue,” highlighting the sport’s impact on national life.
Loyd Grossman Recognised for Services to Heritage
Sir Loyd Grossman, well known for his distinctive voice and culinary presence on British TV, also received a knighthood—but for something less expected: his contributions to heritage.
As chairman of The Royal Parks, Grossman has championed conservation and culture, preserving green spaces and national treasures.
The 74-year-old said the honour was “pretty amazing” and admitted he was “delighted, surprised, thrilled, overwhelmed and excited” by the news.
MI5 Chief Knighted for Leading During National Crises
Sir Kenneth McCallum, the director general of MI5, was also honoured for his public service.
As the only publicly known member of the domestic intelligence agency, McCallum led MI5 during pivotal moments—including the 2017 terrorist attacks and the attempted assassination of Sergei Skripal in 2018.
Appointed director general in 2020, Sir Kenneth’s leadership during these national emergencies was key to shaping Britain’s security response in recent years.
Historical Fiction Author Robert Harris Awarded a CBE
Another literary heavyweight recognised at the ceremony was Robert Harris, who received a CBE for his contributions to literature.
Known for gripping historical novels, Harris’s Conclave was recently adapted into a film starring Ralph Fiennes—which even earned a Best Picture Oscar nomination this year.
The 68-year-old author continues to be a force in storytelling, blending politics, history, and suspense into compelling fiction.
Damehood for Labour MP Emily Thornberry
Labour MP Emily Thornberry was also honoured with a damehood for her public and political service.
The MP for Islington South and Finsbury since 2005 has been a significant figure on Labour’s front bench, previously serving as shadow foreign secretary and shadow attorney general.
Now serving as chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, Dame Emily’s award recognised her decades of dedication to parliamentary service and diplomacy.
A Ceremony Full of Inspiration and Legacy
From council estates to city halls, from rugby fields to spy agencies, and from bookshelves to royal parks—this honours ceremony wasn’t just about titles.
It was a powerful reminder of how talent, grit, and service to others can lead to recognition at the highest levels.
Each story celebrated at Buckingham Palace this week adds to a broader narrative: that greatness can come from anywhere, and that those who serve, create, or protect others are never forgotten.