Helen Mirren says that it is a huge 'honour' to receive an award from the European Film Academy.
The actress has enjoyed a career that has spanned over forty years and she has been recognised for her varied body of work over the years.
And the Oscar winner revealed that she is proud to be part of a tradition of great European acting.
Speaking to the Press Association the actress said: "It was discovering the immense diversity of European filmmaking that gave me an enduring love and respect for the art form.
"This award is therefore a very meaningful honour. I would be proud to be counted as an actor in the European tradition.
The actress is currently filming Red 2 in which she will reprise the role of retired CIA officer Victoria.
She has also completed work on Hitchcock with Anthony Hopkins and will play the director's wife Alma Reville.
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