The Queen presented Sir David, both 93, with an award for his BBC series Blue Planet II after it raised awareness of the danger of plastic pollution in oceans. The prize honours those that have made the most significant contribution to the improvement of international relations. But the Monarch made a great joke as the gave a speech before handing over the award.

Speaking at the event, Her Majesty said: “As patron of the Royal Institute of International Affairs I am delighted to award this year’s Chatham House prize to Sir David Attenborough for Blue Planet II.

“Sir David this award recognises your many talents.

“One can’t help but feel that those of us of a certain generation, we can take great pleasure in proving age is no barrier.”

Robin Niblett, director of Chatham House, said: “Plastic pollution is one of the gravest challenges facing the world’s oceans, and undoubtedly an international issue.

“Blue Planet II spurred a passionate global response and generated clear behavioural and policy change.”

Her appearance at the award event came just after Prince Andrew announced he would be stepping back from royal duties.

The Queen approved Prince Andrew’s proposal to step back from royal duties “for the foreseeable future”.

Prince Andrew had given a BBC Newsnight interview about his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The Duke of York strenuously denied claims in the interview that he had any sexual relationship with Epstein’s victims.

In a statement, Prince Andrew said: “It has become clear to me over the last few days that the circumstances relating to my former association with Jeffrey Epstein has become a major disruption to my family’s work and the valuable work going on in the many organisations and charities that I am proud to support.

“Therefore, I have asked Her Majesty if I may step back from the public duties for the foreseeable future, and she has given her permission.

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“I continue to unequivocally regret my ill-judged associated with Jeffrey Epstein.

“His suicide has left many unanswered questions, particularly for his victims, and I deeply sympathise with everyone who has been affected and wants some form of closure.

“I can only hope that, in time, they will be able to rebuild their lives.

“Of course, I am willing to help any appropriate law enforcement agency with their investigation, if required.”

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