UHI pays tribute to author and supporter Peter May

The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) is saddened to learn of the death of internationally bestselling Scottish crime writer Peter May, who died on 25 September 2026.

Known internationally for his crime fiction, including the acclaimed Lewis Trilogy, Peter was a longstanding supporter and donor to UHI. He received an honorary doctorate from the university in 2019, presented by UHI’s Chancellor, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, at the UHI Perth graduation ceremony.

Peter maintained a close connection with UHI. In 2021, he established the Peter May Fiction Prize, with funding for ten years, encouraging students and recent graduates to develop their creative writing. He took an active interest in the prize and its entrants, choosing the winner each year. The 2026 winner is due to be announced shortly.

Vicki Nairn, Principal and Vice Chancellor, said:

“We are deeply grateful for Peter’s dedication to UHI and his generous support for our students. Through the Peter May Fiction Prize and his personal involvement in choosing its winners, he encouraged aspiring writers to develop their talent with confidence.

“He will be sorely missed, and we extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends and all those who loved his stories.”