FIVE women are set to battle it out for the title of Scotland's most influential woman.

FIVE women are set to battle it out for the title of Scotland's most influential woman.

JK Rowling is among the nominees for the NCH Scotland Women of Influence award, which will be held in Glasgow.

This year's award recognises those who have worked hard to improve the lifestyles and education of children.

The Harry Potter author is joined by world champion athlete and Olympic silver medallist Liz McColgan, now a coach for youngsters and charity fundraiser, and Scottish Youth Theatre chief Mary McCluskey.

Also nominated are Catherine Lockerbie, director of the Edinburgh International Book Festival, and Professor Christine Hallet, whose pioneering child protection work has helped shape social policy.

Lord Advocate Eilish Angiolini, a former winner of the title, said: "These awards mark the significant contribution women from diverse communities make to our national life.

"In our mothers' and grandmothers' time women received very little recognition.

"Today, it is a very different story.

"The awards also highlight the vital work NCH does to support Scotland's children and young people and raise an incredible amount of money to support that work."

The awards, to be hosted by Evening Times columnist Heather Suttie, are on Sunday at the Barony Hall.