Posthumous award for James Bond composer John Barry

JAMES Bond soundtrack guru John Barry is to be honoured with a posthumous prize for his outstanding contribution to music at next month's Classic Brit Awards.

The composer died in January after setting the tone for many 007 films, as well as dozens of other films and TV shows.

It will be the first time a posthumous prize has been awarded since the Classic Brits were founded in 2000.

Dame Shirley Bassey will be among those to take part in a finale dedicated to Barry at the ceremony next month, performing Goldfinger.

In a celebration of his work, several of Barry's best-known themes will be performed by the London Chamber Orchestra and some of the UK's most celebrated classical performers.

Barry scored more than 100 films during his five-decade career, winning Oscars for Born Free, Out of Africa and Dances With Wolves.

His widow, Laurie, said: "He was an advocate of classical musicians and the growth of classical music in the UK. On behalf of his family, we are very grateful that he has been recognised for his achievements."

The event takes place at the Royal Albert Hall on 12 May and will be broadcast later by ITV1.