I have been fortunate in my career to have been able to do jobs that are the stuff of dreams and my charity years with Crimestoppers have been some of the happiest of my life and sent me on a path of self-discovery and fulfilment.

The charity in Scotland enjoys a distinguished record and I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to serve firstly as a member of the Board and then as Chairman for so long, serving two terms. Doesn't time fly when you're having fun!

It is with a deep sense of pride that I accept this hour from Her Majesty the Queen as I step down after a decade with the only charity helping solving crime.

But the skipper, they say, is only as good as his crew so much credit for our outstanding achievements North of the Border must go to colleagues, staff and our police partners whose dedication and commitment allowed us to punch above out weight.

I feel humbled, but deeply honoured that the Queen was minded to recognise my contribution to the criminal justice system. Over the years I have seen the charity in Scotland grow in numbers and reputation, making it one of the most resilient regions in the whole of UK.

As you can imagine, I am delighted to be leaving with this accolade and wish my colleagues all the very best...

Read more on Stewart's goodbye here