Scots recognised in Queen's New Year Honours list

Record-breaking cyclist Mark Beaumont and Game of Thrones star James Cosmo and are among the high-profile Scots included in the New Year Honours list.

The group will also see renowned elections expert Professor John Curtice receive a knighthood.

The 64-year-old politics professor from the Strathclyde University in Glasgow is best known to the public for his media and television work on polls and election nights.

His exit poll in June's snap election revealed Theresa May was set to lose her majority in the House of Commons, despite the Tories having had a big lead over Labour in the polls when the contest began - prompting some to suggest the psephologist was the real winner in the ballot.

Sir John said he never expected the honour, but was “truly grateful''.

The academic said: “Just six months ago the exit poll I led surprised everyone with a shock prediction that went on to be uncannily accurate.

“Now it is my turn to be surprised - and humbled - by the gracious decision to grant me a knighthood.

“It is not something I ever expected to happen. But it appears my attempts to analyse public opinion and outline its implications for the country's political life are appreciated, and for that I am duly grateful.''

The same honour is also going to the Very Reverend Professor Iain Torrance, a former moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland who has been Pro-Chancellor of the University of Aberdeen since 2013.

A former Territorial Army chaplain, during his time as moderator in 2004 he visited every British unit serving in Southern Iraq.

His inclusion in the Honours list is recognition of his services to higher education and theology.

Meanwhile, veteran Scots actor James Cosmo is honoured with an MBE for services to drama, having starred in films including Braveheart, Trainspotting and Highlander.

More recently he has appeared in the hit show Game of Thrones and was one of the housemates in Celebrity Big Brother in 2017.

Cyclist Beaumont, who made headlines when he first broke the record for cycling round the world in 2008, is also recognised with a British Empire Medal.

The 34-year-old receives the award after undertaking a second record-breaking bike trip around the world this year, completing the massive journey in a time of 78 days, 14 hours and 40 minutes.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “The Queen's New Year Honours list illustrates the achievements of many exceptional people from across Scotland who have shown outstanding service and dedication.

“From those who work in the field of education and business, medicine and mental health, to those who promote our country on the world's sporting stage and on screen, the Honours are a fitting way of celebrating their work.

“I also want to extend my congratulations to emergency service personnel who have been awarded The Queen's Fire, Police or Ambulance Service Medals. Our emergency services deserve our continued gratitude for helping to keep people and communities across Scotland safe, every day of the year.''

Secretary of State for Scotland David Mundell said: “I am pleased to see the New Year Honours 2018 recognise some of Scotland's most deserving volunteers, community leaders and public figures.

“From the achievements of prominent sporting greats such as Mark Beaumont to the inspirational local heroes of our communities whose tireless dedication, commitment and compassion benefit so many across the length and breadth of Scotland, it is right that we mark their dedication and commitment.

“I congratulate each and every recipient on their award - they truly deserve their recognition today and our thanks and praise for their contribution.”