North's leading lights honoured

Mr Sutherland has had a long standing involvement with swimming

A veteran swimmer, a medical professional and a leading figure on the island of Eigg have been recognised in the New Year Honours.

Others from the Highlands and Islands have also become Members of the British Empire (MBE).

They include Alex Sutherland for voluntary services to swimming in Inverness.

Maggie Fyffe was also honoured for her involvement in community and green power projects on Eigg.

Gold medals

Also appointed MBEs were Inverness fashion designer Sandra Murray; Pradip Kumar, from Caithness, for services to medical training; Robert Jones, of Kyle, who headed the design and interpretative service at Forestry Commission Scotland; Joan Healey for services to the Citizens' Advice Bureau in Ross and Cromarty and Colin Ploughman from Golspie, for voluntary services.

Earlier this year, Inverness Leisure renamed its refurbished boardroom after 85-year-old Mr Sutherland.

The Inverness Swimming Club stalwart has been a regular at the pool for many years and has won several gold medals in the veteran sections of competitions.

Ms Fyffe said: "I didn't think I would ever receive anything like this, but it is great that I have.

"Although it is mine, I feel it is for everyone on Eigg, and it is great to be recognised in this way."