June 7, 2000 15:42

ROBBIE'S SO 'SPECIAL'!

The former [a]Take That[/a] star steps into [b]Ian Dury's[/b] shoes to become special envoy for [b]Unicef[/b]...

Robbie Williams was made a special envoy for the charity UNICEF last night (June 6) in recognition of his humanitarian work for the children's aid organisation - replacing the late Ian Dury.

Williams received the honour of Special Representative To The Music Industry from the widow of the late Ian Dury, Sophy, at the London Middle Temple Gardens.

Williams has recently completed humanitarian work in Sri Lanka and Mozambique for UNICEF, and was introduced to the charity by Dury, who prior to his death was also active in his support.

Speaking after receiving the award, Williams said: "This means so much to me, and I thank Ian (Dury) for introducing me to working with UNICEF. During my last trip I met so many kids who gave me reason to smile. Now I want to be able to give them something to smile about too."

Robbie Williams' new single is called 'I Don't Wanna Rock DJ', and is released on July 31 through EMI. It is the first track from his new, as yet untitled new album, due in the early autumn.