A former weekly newspaper editor who left his role at the end of last year is to be honoured with a lifetime achievement award for his services to journalism tonight.

Mike Collins, who edited the Northern Scot for 10 years, will receive the Barron Trophy at this evening’s Highlands and Islands Press Ball and Media Awards.

Mike, pictured, stood down from the editorship of the Scot at the end of 2017 after a 44-year career in journalism.

During his time at the helm, the Scot was named the Highlands and Islands, Scottish and UK Weekly Newspaper of the Year for its coverage of the 2010-11 Save RAF Lossiemouth campaign.

Said Mike: “Winning those awards were very proud achievements for the newspaper, highlighting the importance of our campaigning credentials and the key role we play in our local community.

“Being awarded the Barron Trophy for a lifetime of achievement in journalism is another accolade I will cherish. It is great to be recognised by my fellow journalists.”

Mike began his career at the Banffshire Herald, in his hometown of Keith, after studying journalism in Edinburgh.

He went on to the Huntly Express before returning to the Herald as editor in 1976, where he remained there until moving to the role of sub-editor with the Aberdeen Press and Journal.

Mike then moved to the Scot as a sub-editor and news editor, before progressing to the role of group chief sub-editor – working on the Forres Gazette, Banffshire Journal and Strathspey and Badenoch Herald as well – and later serving as Scot deputy editor and editor.

He lives in Keith with his wife Lorna and has two children, Kevin and Paula, and three grandchildren.