France's highest honour has been bestowed on five Second World War veterans at a special ceremony in Edinburgh.

The men were presented with the Legion d'Honneur at a reception held by the lord provost Donald Wilson.

Edinburgh men Alexander Addison, 93, Tom Gilzean, 95, Alexander Mees 89, David Watt 90, and Hawick veteran Jim Stirling, 90, were honoured for the brave role they played in liberating France during the war.

Four of the veterans took part in the D-Day landings in June 1944.

The medals were presented by French consul general in Scotland Emmanuel Cocher at Edinburgh's city chambers.

He said: “I am truly honoured to present these veterans with the Légion d’honneur. France will never forget the bravery they showed in taking part in the Liberation of France 70 years ago.

"The actions and sacrifice of these men, and that of so many who fell on the battlefield, was instrumental in bringing back freedom and peace in France and across Europe”.

Mr Wilson said: “Our armed forces, both serving personnel and veterans, need our continued support and gratitude for the risks they take to keep us safe.

"The gentlemen here today have my utmost respect and I join the consul general in expressing my appreciation for their service to the country and heroism.”

The honour was the latest in a string of accolades for Edinburgh Award-winner Mr Gilzean, who has raised tens of thousands of pounds for local charities on the Royal Mile and Princes Street.

It is the latest in a number of special ceremonies that have taken place throughout the UK since the 70th anniversary of D-Day in June 2014, when President François Hollande pledged to honour all surviving British veterans who had served in France during 1944-45.