Benedict Cumberbatch to be honoured at British Film Awards

London: 'Sherlock' star Benedict Cumberbatch will be honoured at thr British Independent Film Awards (BIFAs) in December this year.

Cumberbatch, 38, will receive the Variety award at the London prizegiving for helping 'focus the international spotlight on the UK' in addition to his Best Actor nomination for his role in 'The Imitation Game', reported the Daily Express.

"I am delighted to receive this prestigious award and would like to thank Variety and The Moet British Independent Film Awards for this incredible honour... It is made even more special by the recognition of The Imitation Game in this year's nominations, a film I am very proud to be a part of," the actor said.

Previous recipients of the award include Michael Caine, Dame Helen Mirren and Jude Law.