A Drumnadrochit man who has volunteered for a number of community groups has been made an MBE.
Alan Bell, 79, has been honoured for his impressive voluntary service to the community of Glenurquhart stretching back more than 40 years.
Mr Bell served as president and chairman of Glenurquhart Shinty Club for 35 years, which he described as “a dominant part” of his life.
He had originally joined the club as a player before moving into the committee role.
He also was a long-standing member of the community council in the area, including a four-year stint as chairman.
He has served on the community association, and still keeps involved in community life as chairman of the Glenurquhart Hall Committee, the chairman of Craigmonie Woodland Association and secretary of Glenurquhart Angling Club – a post he has held for 40 years.
Mr Bell said he was “delighted” with his honour – but added that he would collect it on behalf of a number of community activists in the area.
He said: “This is very much for the community and I will be thinking of all the other volunteers who I have worked with over the years when I collect it.
“There are a lot of people who have contributed to Glenurquhart over the years and, for whatever reason, somebody has picked my name out for the award.
“I have always enjoyed my time here and I’m delighted with the honour.”
Mr Bell was born on Islay and moved to Drumnadrochit 47 years ago.
He is a retired history teacher, having taught the subject at Glenurquhart senior school for five years and Nairn Academy for 23 years.
He is married to Jan and has three children – Jamie, David and Catriona – and five grandchildren.