Singer Olivia Newton-John and directors Sam Mendes and Steve McQueen have all received high honours in Britain

Grease star Newton-John has been made a dame for her singing and acting and for her charitable work supporting cancer research.

Oscar-winning director Mendes of American Beauty fame was made a knight along with McQueen, director of 12 Years a Slave, winner of the Oscar for best picture.

The three were among more than 1000 people named on the New Year's Honours list.

Newton-John, 71, said the honour was a recognition of her British heritage.

She was born in Britain but moved to Australia with her family when she was 5.