Dame Helen Mirren – who has made a second career out of playing the Queen – indulged in some distinctly non-regal language last night when she declared that turning 70 was going to be “f------ awesome”.

The veteran actress, 68, star of The Queen and The Audience among others, didn’t mince her words as she looked forward with positivity to the forthcoming decade.

Cementing her position as the coolest of British pensioners, Dame Helen, who was being honored with the Icon award at the Glamour Women of the Year ceremony, said in her acceptance speech, “Your 40s are good. Your 50s are great. Your 60s are fab. And 70 is f------ awesome. I’m not quite there yet, but almost.”

The award was presented by Dame Helen’s latest co-star, Ryan Reynolds, who dubbed her the “Dame of Thrones”, reported the Telegraph.

Naomi Campbell won TV personality of the year and Paloma Faith scooped the solo artist prize. Nicole Kidman, who won the Outstanding Contribution award, was the only winner unable to attend. She sent a video message instead.