Duke presents medals to 'outstanding' thinkers

THE Duke of Edinburgh has presented medals to three leading thinkers for the "outstanding" contributions they have made in their fields of expertise during a ceremony in the Capital.

Philip handed over the Royal Medals at Holyrood Palace yesterday.

All three recipients were recommended by the Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) in recognition of the "profound influence" their work has had on people's lives across the globe.

One of those honoured was Richard Holloway, a former Bishop of Edinburgh who went on to become chairman of the Scottish Arts Council.

The award recognises the contribution he has made to the cultural life through his debates on ethics and theology and his involvement in public policy issues.

Professor Roger Fletcher, based at the University of Dundee, received a medal for his contribution to mathematics and software development. Those behind the awards said his work in mathematical programming made him "one of the elite group of active mathematicians in the world".

Professor Sir David Lane also picked up a medal for the "major impact" he has had in the field of cancer research. The chief scientist for Cancer Research UK was described by the RSE as "one of the world's foremost scientists".

President of the RSE Sir Michael Atiyah said of the trio: "They are all worthy recipients."