Sir Elton John has received France’s highest civilian award, the Legion d’Honneur, during a private ceremony held at the presidential Elysee Palace earlier this month.

French President Emmanuel Macron hailed John as "an icon that knows how to set an example".

"To receive this decoration, the day of the Fete de la Musique, makes it even more special,” the 72-year-old iconic singer said, stressing that the fight against Aids reminds him "each day of the extraordinary power of the human spirit".

"It is this magical human spirit that I will carry with me as a proud member of the Legion of Honour,” he added.