Scorsese to receive special BAFTA

Los Angeles - Martin Scorsese is to be given a BAFTA Fellowship next month.

The acclaimed director - who last year released his first family film Hugo - will join the likes of Stanley Kubrick, Steven Spielberg and Dame Judi Dench by receiving the accolade, given to those who provide an exceptional contribution to film.

Tim Corrie, chairman of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, claimed Scorsese was the perfect person to gift the prize too as he was a "true inspiration" to new filmmakers.

He said: "Martin Scorsese is a legend in his lifetime; a true inspiration to all young directors the world over. We are delighted to honour his contribution to cinema history and look forward to paying tribute to him in London on 12 February."

Commenting on the accolade, Martin - whose other big films include Taxi Driver and Gangs of New York added: "It is a great honour to be recognized by the British Academy and to join the ranks of such an esteemed group of industry colleagues and friends."

The BAFTA Awards ceremony will be held on February 12.