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Actor Henry Winkler, who played Fonz in the US sitcom Happy Days, has been appointed an honorary OBE for his work with British children who have learning difficulties.

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Winkler said it was 'humbling' to be appointed an honorary OBE, awarded at the British embassy in Washington DC.

Winkler, who is dyslexic but was only diagnosed as an adult, visited UK schools to talk about learning disabilities. The actor has also written his own children's books based around the protagonist Hank Zipzer, who is a young dyslexic boy.

Zipzer's adventures are based upon Winkler's own struggles he faced as a child with dyslexia.

The author spoke to BBC Breakfast, saying visiting the schools was 'one of his favourite things to do'.

British ambassador Nigel Sheinwald presented the OBE at the British embassy, saying: 'Through [Winkler], thousands of young people have seen a role model and an inspiration for overcoming their learning challenges.'

The Queen makes honorary OBE awards to non-British citizens on the advice of the UK Foreign Office.

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