Recognised as one of the leading figures in the Scottish legal profession, Professor Crerar, who was accompanied by his wife Taroub, was made a CBE in the Birthday Honours List last year for his contribution to “economic and community development” in Scotland.

He received his award insignia from His Royal Highness Prince Charles in the Ballroom at Buckingham Palace.

A co-founder of law firm Harper Macleod LLP, Professor Crerar has had an illustrious career in both the legal profession and public service, not least in his role as chairman of Highlands and Islands Enterprise – from which he will step down this month having served two terms since 2012.

He said: “This has been a truly memorable day and I am honoured to have received a CBE from The Prince of Wales. To do so at Buckingham Palace is a tremendous privilege and it is made even more so having been given this award for doing something which I have been passionate about throughout my career – promoting economic and community development. Receiving this honour also reflects the efforts of many dedicated people I have worked with in both my business and civic capacities over many years and I am delighted to share this with them.”

The CBE is the highest ranking of Order of the British Empire honours, followed by an OBE (Officer) and then MBE (Member).

Last year, Professor Crerar also received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Scottish Legal Awards 2019, an award which also acknowledged his influence beyond the legal sector which has seen him carry out key roles in sport, academia and the public sector.