JASON Leitch has been recognised with a 2020 Fletcher of Saltoun Award for his contributions to science.

Scotland’s national clinical director has been named as the fourth of six recipients this year.

The Saltire Society, which runs the awards, said he has been recognised for his application of scientific method to a major public health issue.

It commended him for his skill in making scientific knowledge accessible, his calmness and leadership in a time of crisis and his “evident deep understanding” of both scientific and public issues.

Sarah Mason, director of the Saltire Society, said: “Jason Leitch has been a steady voice in a time of uncertainty, his calm and clear approach to disseminating information while being understanding to the general public’s worries has been admirable.”