The clerk to the Lieutenancy of Kincardineshire has been made a Member of the Royal Victorian Order.
Gordon Ritchie, who lives in Stonehaven, helps represent Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth in the Mearns area.
A solicitor, he founded Stonehaven Heritage Society and has produced several books on the history of the town.
He is also a past president of the Rotary Club.
The Lord-Lieutenant is responsible for organising any royal visits to the county, as well as updating The Royals on what is happening in the area.