Mr Archer has been a housing management officer working in the Inverness team for 30 years and during this time has provided support to many individuals and families to help them through what can often be difficult and challenging times in their lives.

The introduction of welfare reform and Universal Credit has led to an increase in workload and the complexity of cases. Mr Archer has made it his priority to ensure tenants are given the assistance they need to cope with these fundamental changes. His dedication and drive mean he has also made strong links and networks with third-sector agencies, housing benefit colleagues and other support agencies.

Housing manager Sandra MacLennan, who nominated Mr Archer, said: “Ron shows genuine commitment, care and compassion. He is the kind of person who will always go the extra mile to help tenants and his work colleagues, in fact, anyone who asks for assistance. He is always there to provide support and to help to find a solution.”

Mr Archer’s drive goes beyond his normal work remit. It is not unusual for him to help tenants in his own time cutting grass, helping them move, and keeping in touch with them to make sure they are settled.

An Inverness tenant said: “My Mum passed away from cancer when I had just moved into my house. Ron helped me so much at such a sad and difficult time, I don’t know what I would have done without his help. Every time I contact Ron he is able to help me, I can’t tell you how much I appreciate that.”

Ever resourceful, after a recent accident left him unable to drive for a short time, Ron had no qualms about getting on his bike to cycle to his visits as he did not want to let tenants down.

His care and compassion also reaches out to the wider community and he has been a volunteer with the Highland Blind Tandem Club for 31 years.

He was presented with his award by the leader of the council, Cllr Margaret Davidson and Nitesh Jain from WIPRO during a ceremony held last night in Inverness Town House. The awards were sponsored by Viridor, hub North Scotland, Zurich Municipal, Morrison Construction and WIPRO.

Runners up were Vicky MacDonald who works at Inverlochy Primary in Fort William as a pupil support and children’s services worker and Fiona Emslie, a learning and development adviser.