Michael Palin CBE is to be presented with the Fellowship Award at the BAFTAs.

The multi-talented TV personality will receive the prestigious accolade in recognition of his influential work over the years, most famously his various roles in British series 'Monty Python's Flying Circus' alongside Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle and Terry Jones.

Speaking about the prize, Michael, 69, said: "A BAFTA Fellowship is a very high honour for anyone working in television. I'm well aware that any success I've had is down to team-work. I've been blessed throughout my career with the inspiration and support of others. The Fellowship is for all of us."

John Willis, Chairman of BAFTA, believes the star's exquisite "craft" is what makes him worthy of the award.

He said: "Michael Palin, ex-Python, writer, presenter and BAFTA-winning actor whose amiable on-screen manner belies the seriousness of his craft, has made an incredible contribution to the medium over five decades.

"There are few individuals more worthy than Michael of the Fellowship, the highest honour the Academy can bestow."

This will be the fourth trophy from the Arqiva British Academy Television Awards for Michael after previously winning Best Actor in a Supporting Role for 'A Fish Called Wanda' in 1989 and two Special Awards in 2005 and 2009.

This year's Special Award is to go to presenter Clare Balding for her outstanding achievement in factual TV presenting.

She commented: "I am in complete shock. I can't believe I've been given such an extraordinary honour. I'm delighted."

The ceremony will be presented by Graham Norton at the Royal Festival Hall, London, and broadcast on BBC One at 8pm on Sunday May 12.