The Strictly Come Dancing host was seen being made a Member of the Order of the British Empire
Tess Daly with her daughter, Phoebe Kay(Image: Phoebe Kay Instagram)
Tess Daly’s daughter has issued a gushing public tribute to her mum after she joined her on what the presenter described as a ‘surreal’ day.
The Strictly Come Dancing host was seen being made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle on Wednesday (November 12).
The presenter was made an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours earlier this year for services to broadcasting alongside her Strictly co-host Claudia Winkleman.
The special day comes after Tess and Claudia both announced they would be leaving the popular BBC One dancing show after its Christmas special, having fronted the programme together since 2014.
Tess spoke about the programme with the King and said her put her “at ease” during the ceremony.
She said: “This is probably the greatest honour of my career and it still feels quite surreal to be honest with you. I’ve been working in television for 25 years, and it’s a job I absolutely love to do.
“It was a real privilege to be in a room of people who have made a difference in their communities, who have built incredible careers. It was a very inspiring environment.”
Tess with Vernon and Phoebe as she collected her MBE(Image: PA)
The 56-year-old, who hails from Stockport, added: “His Majesty put me at ease – I was quite nervous. We talked about the show and I know the Queen enjoys it. She sent me a letter of congratulations when I received the MBE which meant the world.”
As she received the honour, Tess’ husband Vernon Kay and their daughters, Phoebe and Amber watched on with pride. While Amber is kept out of the spotlight, Phoebe was seen posing with her doting parents after the special ceremony.
Later, 21-year-old Phoebe took to Instagram to praise her mum and share her delight at being able to enjoy the milestone occasion with her.
Sharing her own candid snaps from the momentous day, she wrote on Instagram: “Mum what an incredible achievement receiving an MBE!
“You are such an inspiration in my life and I admire everything you do, because you do it all with such kindness, warmth and love. This achievement reflects your dedication to your work and success in doing what you love.”
Phoebe with Tess at Windsor Castle
Phoebe added: “I’m so grateful to have been there today with Dad and Amber to watch you receive your medal from His Majesty the King, an emotional and monumental moment I will remember forever. Proud of you always.”
Hours after the ceremony took place Tess also took to social media to reflect on the milestone moment. Alongside pictures from the ceremony and with her MBE, the broadcaster said: “Well that was quite the morning…
“I hardly know where to begin – and am still pinching myself; I was shaking like a leaf when I curtsied! When I got my first TV presenting job 25 years ago on the Big Breakfast I never dreamed that I would be standing here today. The investiture took place at Windsor Castle where I was deeply honoured to receive an MBE – with the medal presented by His Majesty The King.
“I’m proud to hail from a northern working class background which makes this all the more surreal and special. My only regret is that my darling dad didn’t get to be part of one of the most special days of my life.”
She added: “Thank you to everyone I’ve worked with over the years and learnt from along the way-this honour is a reflection of their talent, dedication and support.
“Receiving this award is a privilege beyond words and without doubt the greatest honour of my career for which I am profoundly and eternally grateful.”
