The Blue Jasmine star will be handed the BFI's highest honour in recognition of her contribution to cinema during the event's annual awards ceremony on 17 October (15).

BFI Chairman Greg Dyke says, "Cate Blanchett is a compelling and brave actress whose mesmerising screen presence has captivated audiences since her earliest roles... We are absolutely delighted to honour her extraordinary talents with a BFI Fellowship at this year's LFF awards."

Previous recipients include Sir Christopher Lee, Ralph Fiennes and director Sir Ridley Scott.

Blanchett's new films Carol and Truth will also be screened at the festival, which runs from 7 to 18 October (15).