CALL HIM SIR Ringo now, or Sir Richard to be more precise. Either way, it’s a fitting honour for the former Beatles drummer, who has waited decades for the recognition.

The 77-year-old Ringo Starr received his long-awaited knighthood from Prince William today. He used his real name Richard Starkey for the big event.

He said the honour “means a lot”. It comes more than half a century after the youthful Beatles first went to Buckingham Palace to receive MBE awards.

The other surviving Beatle, Paul McCartney, was knighted in 1997.

Former Beatle Ringo Starr, is made a knight by Britain's Prince William at Buckingham Palace. Yui Mok Yui Mok

“I had dinner with him last week and we were both actually laughing about where we came from, and we’ve ended up in the palace and it’s now Sir Paul and Sir Richard,” said Starr.

Read: ‘Appearances can be deceptive’ – Cambridge Analytica suspends chief executive

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More