Ananova:

Sting says he is "surprised and flattered" to be awarded a CBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours list.

The singer, 51, who first found fame with The Police, was rewarded for his services to the music industry.

"If my mum and dad were still here they would be made up," he said.

Throughout his career, Sting has been recognised for his influence and inventiveness as a musical artist.

In 2002 he received a Grammy, a Golden Globe Award, an Emmy, three BMI Awards, the Ivor Novello award for international achievement, the 2002 Brit Award for outstanding contribution to British music and was inducted into the songwriters hall of fame.

And his fund-raising for rainforests and human rights has also been a major part of his life.

Eighth in the Sunday Times music millionaires league for 2003, the 51-year-old is expected to release his latest album in September.

Story filed: 08:57 Saturday 14th June 2003