Arlene, 78, collected her award at Windsor Castle for services to dance and charity. Afterwards she said: "I'm feeling very emotional. Walking into that glorious room and then speaking to the Princess Royal was just so beautiful. "I was really overcome with emotion, I was chatting away and thinking, 'Please don't cry'."
Meanwhile, Sue Barker, 65, got her CBE for services to sport, broadcasting and charity from Prince William, also at Windsor.
She said: "I was absolutely terrified. I would much rather walk on Centre Court and interview the winner of Wimbledon.
"But they make you feel so welcome, and His Royal Highness was absolutely delightful." Other attendees included Capt Georgina Carlo-Paat, who collected her MBE for her services to promoting women at sea.