Pop princess Kylie collects her OBE

1:08pm Friday 4th July 2008

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Kylie Minogue spoke of her joy at being back to full fitness after beating breast cancer as she received an OBE.

The pop princess said she was touring for the first time with a healthy body since being given the all clear from the disease.

The singer, actress and performer described being "totally blown away" at receiving the OBE from the Prince of Wales during an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Kylie, 40, said: "It was surprisingly emotional. I expected to be a little nervous, obviously very excited, but it was very emotional seeing all these people from different walks of life joining together for this event."

Looking at her OBE medal, she added: "This symbolises my communication with my audience and people around the world and that's incredible."

In May 2005, Minogue was diagnosed with breast cancer and was forced to put her career on hold. But she returned to the stage just 18 months later, having undergone chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and used her "time off" to write the children's book The Showgirl Princess.

She was joined at the Palace by her parents, former ballet dancer Carol and accountant Ron, and her sister Dannii who has also carved out a pop career.

During the investiture the singer shared a personal moment with Charles, clasping his hand with both of hers.

She said while chatting to the Prince he had commented about her recovery from cancer. "He just asked what I'm up to at the moment and was happy to see me better."

She added: "I'm so happy to be back on tour. This is my second tour since being ill. My energy levels are now so much better. I think I was quite fragile on the last one but it was something I had to do, but now I'm full of joy and very thankful."

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