Mikayla Beames, 18, has been awarded a British Empire Medal after founding Team Mikayla following her cancer diagnosis aged four.

Awards under the Royal Victorian Order are in the King’s gift and are bestowed independently of Downing Street.

Stephen Fry said he is “startled and enchanted” to be awarded a knighthood in the New Year Honours and hopes it sets an example that there is “always hope”. The actor, screenwriter and author is being ...