The Queen gives her thanks to Gary Barlow and his fellow Jubilee stars

Back in June, Gary Barlow headed an army of celebrities who lent their talent and time to create an unforgettable Diamond Jubilee line-up.

Now, the Queen has shown her appreciation for their efforts on her big year. 

Her Majesty and the Duke of Edinburgh welcomed Gary to a private Buckingham Palace reception to thank him for organising the star-studded Diamond Jubilee concert. 

Gary's musical extravaganza featured titans including Stevie Wonder, Sir Paul McCartney and Grace Jones who all played to a televised audience of millions.

He also co-wrote the Jubilee anthem Sing with composer Andrew Lloyd Webber. Their effort went straight to the top of the singles chart during the summer.

X Factor judge Gary was later awarded an OBE for services to the entertainment industry and to charity.

The decorated star told the BBC: "I just thought the event deserved such notice from everybody and I think everybody was so proud that the Queen had made it to this point and the amazing job she has done for so long for us all. We were all just proud to be a part of it.

"I think we got it right, I think it opened up an amazing summer for our country."

Celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal was also amongst those invited to the Palace.

He was thanked for creating Jubilee picnic hampers which were handed out to the 10,000 revellers who lined The Mall prior to Gary's concert. 

"I was really pleased with it," Heston said. "It was the challenge of taking something that had a historical framework and showcasing British produce."