GAME Of Thrones star James Cosmo and record-breaking cyclist Mark Beaumont are among the high-profile Scots included in the New Year Honours list, which also sees elections expert Professor John Curtice knighted.

The 64-year-old politics professor from the University of Strathclyde is well known to the public from his media and television work on polls and elections.

His exit poll in June's snap election revealed Theresa May was set to lose her Commons majority, despite the Tories having had a massive lead in the polls over Labour when the contest started – prompting some to suggest the psephologist was the real winner in the ballot.

Sir John said he never expected the honour, but was "truly grateful".

The academic said: "Just six months ago the exit poll I led surprised everyone with a shock prediction that went on to be uncannily accurate. Now it is my turn to be surprised – and humbled – by the gracious decision to grant me a knighthood.

"It is not something I ever expected to happen. But it appears my attempts to analyse public opinion and outline its implications for the country's political life are appreciated, and for that I am duly grateful."

Born in Cornwall, he studied at Oxford, and as well as his post at Strathclyde University, he is a senior research fellow at NatCen Social Research – Britain's largest independent social research agency – and president of the British Polling Council.

Guy Goodwin, chief executive of The National Centre for Social Research, congratulated him on the honour and said: "It seems that during these times of political change, people value John's ability to offer statistical insight into complex issues, and communicate that insight accessibly.

"Of course here at NatCen, we've always understood what a rare skill set this is, and so we couldn't be happier for John as he gets the recognition he so clearly deserves.

"His is a voice of measured, scholarly authority in a chaotic media landscape, and long may it continue to be heard."

Meanwhile, veteran Scots actor James Cosmo is honoured with an MBE for services to drama, having starred in films including Braveheart, Trainspotting and Highlander.

More recently, the Clydebank-born star has appeared in the hit show Game Of Thrones and was one of the housemates in Celebrity Big Brother in 2017.

Cyclist Beaumont, who made headlines when he first broke the record for cycling round the world in 2008, is also recognised with a British Empire Medal.

The 34-year-old receives the award after undertaking a second record-breaking bike trip around the world this year, completing the massive journey in a time of 78 days, 14 hours and 40 minutes.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "The Queen's New Year Honours list illustrates the achievements of many exceptional people from across Scotland who have shown outstanding service and dedication.

"From those who work in the field of education and business, medicine and mental health, to those who promote our country on the world's sporting stage and on screen, the Honours are a fitting way of celebrating their work.

"I also want to extend my congratulations to emergency service personnel who have been awarded The Queen's Fire, Police or Ambulance Service Medals. Our emergency services deserve our continued gratitude for helping to keep people and communities across Scotland safe, every day of the year."