Huw Edwards 'embarrassed' by knighthood rumours

Huw Edwards has admitted he is 'embarrassed' by rumours that he is to receive a knighthood for his coverage of the Queen's death in September.

The veteran broadcaster broke the news of the monarch's death on the BBC and he continued to lead the channel's coverage in the days that followed in addition to fronting the Queen's funeral.

Speaking to the Radio Times about the rumours regarding him receiving an honour from the new King Charles III, Edwards denied the claims: "I am embarrassed by it.

Read more: Huw Edwards 'practised announcement of Queen's death in bathroom mirror'

"I have been involved in nominating people for honours and, in a few cases, people who have spent a lifetime giving time to deserving causes and don’t get anything."

Watch: Huw Edwards announces the death of Queen Elizabeth on BBC

He added: "So, although I don’t mean it disrespectfully, the idea of a knighthood embarrasses me."

Edwards also spoke on the process of announcing the Queen's death: "The announcement came up on the wires and the gallery said, 'The announcement is here. Take your time. Speak when you are ready. Don’t rush'."

While Edwards received much acclaim for his handling of the events, he has also made a point to praise the off-air team at the BBC.

In the days that followed the Queen's funeral, he took some time out on air to praise the staff that work on BBC News behind the scenes.

He said: "Behind the camera – an army of the best talent in broadcasting. My thanks to them and to all of you for the kind messages. Diolch."

Edwards first joined the BBC as a trainee in 1984 eventually rising to present the Six O'Clock News in 1999 when it was the most watched show in Britain.

Edwards' career is also notable for fronting the BBC's coverage of the death of Nelson Mandela and the 2019 General Election.