SCOTLAND’S OLYMPIC medal stars lead the way in the New Years honours list, with tennis champ Andy Murray and rowing golden girl Katherine Grainger among those to receive awards.
As well as the sporting heroes who are recognised for their endeavours, honours also go to Star Wars and Trainspotting star Ewan McGregor and actress Siobhan Redmond, as well the renowned violinist Nicola Benedetti.
Professor Peter Higgs, the retired professor from Edinburgh University who gave his name to the “God particle”, is awarded the Companion of Honour for his services to physics.
Grainger, who won her gold medal after being runner up at the previous three games is given a CBE, while Murray, who took Olympic gold and won his first ever grand slam when he beat Novak Djokovic in the US Open finals, is awarded an OBE.
Actor McGregor receives an OBE for his services to drama and charity.
The Crieff born star, who is an ambassador for Unicef, became a supporter of the charity after visiting some of its projects in Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Mongolia as part of his round-the world motorcycle trip, Long Way Round.
There is also an MBE for violinist Nicola Benedetti for her services to music and charity.
For full coverage of the New Year Honours List, see Saturday’s Courier or try our new digital edition.