THE Evening Times asked you to nominate the top talents in Scotland – from singers to artists and comedians to politicians.

And today we can reveal the nominees for the Scottish Variety Awards 2013, a glittering Glasgow event that will showcase the best the country has to offer.

Nicola Cassells, who will be singing at the Evening Times' Scotswoman Of The Year award ceremony this week, is nominated for Best Scottish Solo Artist.

Glasgow actress Sharon Rooney, now starring in E4's hit comedy My Mad Fat Diary, comedian Mark Nelson, and musical theatre actress Jenny Douglas are among the nominees.

There will also be an award for Outstanding Achievement. Previous winners include Paolo Nutini, Amy Macdonald and, last year, Susan Boyle, who has performed at the event.

The event, being held at the Crowne Plaza hotel, Glasgow, on March 23, is being backed by the Evening Times.

Television presenter and musician Laura Marks, who is behind the awards, said: "We pride ourselves at the Scottish Variety Awards in helping to promote up-and-coming talent in Scotland. That is why the event was formed.

"We urge the Scottish public to go online and vote for who they would like to win. There is no panel of judges, so the winner of each award really is in the hands of Scotland."

Last month, the Evening Times revealed the hosts at the glitzy bash will be Capital FM's breakfast show duo Des Clarke and Jennie Cook.

All money raised from the evening will go to Yorkhill Hospital, charity Debra, and Capital FM's nominated charity Help A Capital Child.

Susan Calman, who won the Best New Scottish Comedian award 2009, said: "The Scottish Variety awards is a fantastic star-studded event with a real sense of occasion.

"Winning the title was a tremendous honour and one I have proudly displayed on my posters and website since."

To vote, see www.capitalfm. com/ scottishvarietyawards

Voting closes on March 8.

Single and group tickets are available.

Call 0141 353 5000 or send an e-mail to: scottishvarietyawards@ kjmevents.com

rebecca.gray@ heraldandtimes.co.uk

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