A rock legend is set to serve as guest speaker at a regional daily’s awards ceremony celebrating the best in its patch’s oil and gas industry.

Iron Maiden lead singer Bruce Dickinson, left, will speak at The Press & Journal Gold Awards ceremony, hosted by the Aberdeen-based newspaper, in September.

The awards were first held last year in a bid to recognise those who had been a significant contribution to Aberdeen’s offshore industries.

At the event Mr Dickinson, who is also a qualified airline pilot, will tak about his ambitious plans to bring Zeppelin-style airships back into use in the 21st century.

Damian Bates, editor-in-chief of the Press and Journal, said: “We are delighted that Bruce, who is a true legend of the heavy metal scene and is almost as widely known for his passion for aircraft as he is for his music, will join us.

“He’s an amazing businessman who has created phenomenal success and gone on to do everything from creating craft beer to writing novels and film scripts.

“At a time when the oil and gas sector needs to show agility and almost re-invent itself, what better person to inspire and motivate leaders to be creative and brave in their bid to win new markets and embrace new ideas?”