Dame Elaine Paige has opened up about receiving her damehood from King Charles III. The West End legend and radio presenter was honoured for her services to music and charity during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle last year.

Recalling the event, the 78-year-old said the monarch dropped his usual formal persona to laugh at one of her comments during their exchange.

Asked what he was like to meet, she told The Metro: "He was up on a dais and I'm particularly short. He leant down beside my left ear and said, 'Keeping your hand in, are you?'."

After it was suggested the remark was "saucy", she continued: "I said, 'I'm working on a new album - I'll send you a signed copy, Your Majesty, when it's finished'."

Recalling his response, Elaine said he "roared with laughter", adding: "I might actually send him a signed copy."

The singer went on to describe the day as "magical" and revealed she shared the room with David Beckham, who was knighted.

After learning she was among the recipients in the King's Birthday Honours list, the BBC Radio 2 star called the recognition the "ultimate privilege".

"Music and the charities I support are the mainstays of my life," she said in a statement at the time. "To receive this acknowledgment for doing what I love is the ultimate privilege.

"In the words of Rodgers and Hammerstein ‘There is Nothin’ Like a Dame’ and this newly-minted one is absolutely over the moon and truly grateful."

Elaine, who was awarded an OBE in 1995, was also presented with the 2026 Special Award by Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber at this year's Olivier Awards.

In a message from Queen Camilla, read by the composer, she said: "I was delighted to learn you were to receive this year’s special award of the Oliviers 2026.

"I can think of no more fitting recipient," she added. "Over the decades of your career, your talent, commitment and generosity of spirit have made you a truly defining figure in musical theatre.

"You have quite simply brought huge joy to untold numbers of people across the globe, and we are all in your debt. I do hope that you have a wonderful evening."

Elaine's admission came to light after King Charles paid a touching tribute to his late father, the Duke of Edinburgh, to mark Father's Day.

A message alongside the photo read: "Celebrating all Fathers, and thinking of those who wish they could be with their Dads, today."

Prince Philip died in 2021 at Windsor Castle at the age of 99.