Following the fashion frenzy that accompanied the launch of her first clothing collection at Top Shop, Kate’s victory in the survey confirms her status as one of Britain’s most influential celebrities. It’s certainly a far cry from her 2005 cocaine ignominy and the endless trials and tribulations of her boyfriend Pete Doherty.

Although Kate’s triumph in the survey suggests Britain has become a celebrity and scandal obsessed nation, the eclectic mix of people joining her in the survey’s Top 10 offers some degree of hope. Live Earth mainman Al Gore and Nelson Mandela were among the top vote getters illustrating the importance of environmental and political issues to the public. Prime Minister in waiting Gordon Brown just missed out on a Top 10 place.

Pop culture remained well represented as Celebrity Big Brother star Shilpa Shetty, Kylie Minogue and Lily Allen all polled enough votes for a Top 10 place. In addition, new 007 Daniel Craig and Doctor Who star David Tennant were also among the public’s preferred icons.

But the Campaign for Museums poll wasn’t entirely obsessed with celebrities. Those surveyed were also asked to name the everyday objects they thought should also be preserved. Unsurprisingly, the i-Pod roundly trounced its nearest rivals the Oyster Card, the low energy lightbulb and blogs and was the runaway top choice.