Sir Elton John gets France’s highest civilian honour from President Emmanuel Macron

Sir Elton John has received France’s highest civilian award, the Legion d’Honneur.

Sir Elton says he is “proud” to receive the prestigious Legion d’Honneur during an event in Paris.

Through his own charity, which celebrated its 25th anniversary last year, the singer has raised more than £300m for HIV prevention, education and support.

The French President described him as “an icon that knows how to set an example” – as he pinned on his award during a private ceremony, also attended by Sir Elton’s husband David Furnish and their two children.

Emmanuel Macron and Sir Elton addressed crowds gathered into the presidential Elysee Palace courtyard.

The 72-year-old said: “To receive this decoration, the day of the Fete de la Musique, makes it even more special.”

He said the fight against Aids reminds him “each day of the extraordinary power of the human spirit”.