SCOTTISH veterans of the Second World War's Arctic convoys were honoured at a special ceremony in the City Chambers.

They were presented with the Ushakov medal by Russian Consul General Andrey Pritsepov.

More than 3000 veterans saw service in the convoys, which were described by Sir Winston Churchill as "the worst journey in the world."

The supply ships faced mountainous seas, freezing weather and came under almost constant attack.

Glasgow Lord Provost Sadie Docherty hosted the awards ceremony for 40 survivors of the convoys or representatives of those who have since passed away.

Mr Pritsepov said: "The Ushakov medal is one of Russia's most important naval awards presented only to those who demonstrated courage in sea warfare.

"These medals are well deserved by the Scottish veterans of the Arctic convoys who sailed alongside our fathers and grandfathers on extremely dangerous missions and returned home victorious against all odds."

Mrs Docherty said: "Those who served in the notorious Arctic convoys have a special place in history and we owe them a huge debt for their bravery and tenacity.

"I know it means a great deal to the veterans and their families that they are finally being honoured."

Between 1941 and 1944, the UK Merchant Navy, escorted by the Royal Navy and the Canadian and US navies, provided support to their ally the Soviet Union through supply convoys which sailed between the Arctic ice pack and German occupied Norway into the ports of Murmansk and Archangel.