Queen guitarist Brian May is knighted

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May performing on the roof of Buckingham Palace in London (June 2002)

Photo: Arthur Edwards / REUTERS

It's a special honor: Queen guitarist Brian May is honored by King Charles III.

knighted.

The 75-year-old will receive an order of knighthood and will be called Sir Brian in the future, the palace announced on Saturday night.

The musician, astrophysicist and animal rights activist is being honored for his services to music and charity after more than 50 years in one of Britain's most popular rock bands, the BBC reports.

May told Britain's PA news agency he will do what is expected of a knight and fight for people who have no voice.

It is the first time that King Charles has approved the New Year Honours.

Traditionally, the royal family honors numerous people with orders and awards for their social commitment at the turn of the year.

This year, 1,107 people are on the honors list, including England women's European champions Leah Williamson, Lucy Bronze, Beth Mead and Ellen White.

You will receive medals of merit.

National coach Sarina Wiegman receives an honorary award.

As a non-British woman, the Dutchwoman cannot officially get a title.

The British ambassadors in Kyiv and Moscow, Melinda Simmons and Deborah Bronnert, are made "ladies".

The title corresponds to the knightly »Sir« for men.

At 18, Dara McAnulty is the youngest awardee.

The Northern Irishman receives a British Empire medal for his commitment to environmental protection and his work with the elderly.

The oldest honoree is 100-year-old Peter Davies, who works as a volunteer reader at a primary school and also receives such a medal.

jpz/dpa