Hamilton made MBE by Queen

(GMM) 2008 world champion Lewis Hamilton has been made an MBE (Member of the British Empire) by the Queen.

The 23-year-old McLaren driver, who last month became the youngest ever formula one title winner, and the first from Britain in twelve years, said he was "humbled" by the recognition in Her Majesty's New Year Honors.

"It is the most amazing culmination to what has been quite a year for me and something I am very appreciative of," he said.

The British Olympic cyclist Chris Hoy received a knighthood, and his mother Carol was given an MBE for her work as a nurse for sleep disorders.

Teenage swimmer Rebecca Adlington received an OBE (Officer of the British Empire), which is one category higher than MBE.

996 people in total were honored.