Iconic Radio 1 dance DJ Pete Tong has been awarded an MBE by the Duke Of Cambridge, in honour of his career in broadcasting and music.

Receiving the award at Buckingham Palace earlier today, Tong said “I’ve been standing here for a few hours waiting to do this and still have to pinch myself. I’ve spent my career doing something I love, playing records….There are so many worthy people here today, I feel quite humbled by all the servicemen, policemen and the charity workers and people like that, so I count myself lucky to be recognised in this way.”

The 53 year-old DJ, who also works as a dance producer, has been responsible for multiple successful mix compilations over the years, whilst his career started at an early age, operating a mobile disco after leaving school, to then progressing to set up his own London nightclub night.

Following successful stints at Capital FM, Tong was given a weekly residency dance show on Radio 1 way back in 1991. The Pete Tong Essential Selection helped the DJ become one of the most in-demand club DJs globally, including earning a residency at Pacha in Ibiza between 2003-2007.

On behalf of us all here at Stagedoor FM, a big congratulations to Pete and a duly-deserved award too. Perhaps it’s not ‘all gone Pete Tong’ after all!