Rolf Harris 'thrilled' to receive Bafta's highest award

Entertainment veteran Rolf Harris is to be honoured by Bafta with its highest award, a fellowship.

The 82-year-old broadcaster, musician and artist is being recognised for his "outstanding and exceptional contribution to television".

Australian Harris has been a regular fixture on TV screens since he signed his first deal with the BBC in 1953.

He will be presented with his fellowship at the Arqiva British Academy Television Awards on May 27 at London's Royal Festival Hall.

Previous recipients have included Lord Bragg, Richard Curtis, Sir David Jason and Sir Bruce Forsyth.

Successive waves have grown up with his programmes which have included Rolf's Cartoon Club, Rolf On Art and Animal Hospital. He has also enjoyed a musical career with chart hits such as Two Little Boys and Sun Arise.

In 2005, he was commissioned to paint a portrait of the Queen by the BBC to celebrate her 80th birthday.

Bafta chairman Tim Corrie said: "Rolf Harris is one of the world's most iconic entertainers. He has huge audience appeal across multiple generations, and we are delighted to honour his contribution to television and the arts."

Harris said today: "I'm hugely honoured and very thrilled."