The Freedom of Moray has been conveyed upon Lord Lieutenant Grenville Johnston ahead of his approaching retirement.
Lt Col Johnston, will step down from the role he has graced for so many years on his 75th birthday later this month, received the award at a special dinner in his honour at Lossiemouth’s RAF base.
As those gathered celebrated his long service to the community – which he aims to continue in other roles – he was presented with the Freedom of Moray scroll by convener of the local council, Shona Morrison.
Sh said it was a privilege to do so.
“His unwavering commitment to the area has been demonstrated through his lifelong dedication to Moray, served through his engagement with the community and by acting as Her Majesty’s representative for the last 15 years,” she said.
“I wish him all the best in his future endeavours and thank him for all he has done for Moray in his career to date.”
Lt Col Johnston said he was “overwhelmed” by the Freedom being conferred upon him.
The honour was last granted to Olympic rowing gold medalist Heather Stanning in 2016 and before that in 2008, to Gordon Baxter of Baxters in Fochabers.
He said: “I was absolutely taken aback at being made a Freeman of Moray.
“It is a huge honour and very kind of all the council members to recognise me in this way.”
Lt Col Johnston was also humbled by the turn-out for his retirement dinner at the RAF base.
It was attended by about 60 people, several of whom highlighted the Lord Lieutenant’s generous nature and years of hard work for Moray in speeches.
As it is a requirement for Lord Lieutenants to step down from the position on the day they reach 75 years of age, he will be retiring on his birthday on January 28.
Lt Col Johnston, who was appointed in August of 2005, predicts that will be an “emotional day” but he will still be involved in the community he cherishes and support local charities, such as Elgin Museum, Morayvia and Pluscarden Abbey.
Looking back fondly on his time as Lord Lieutenant, Lt Col Johnston said: “It has been a privilege to be Lord Lieutenant and everyone in Moray means a great deal to me.
“I’ve lived here all my life and thoroughly enjoyed doing so, I’ve enjoyed meeting thousands of people who make Moray a happy place to be.”
In his retirement, he is planning to travel and spend time with his family, adding that he was grateful to his wife for supporting him throughout the 15 years.
