A woman who overcame the terror of being stalked to push through changes in the law in almost 50 countries is the 51st Evening Times Scotswoman of the Year.

In front of an audience of more than 200 women, including leading politicians, celebrities, entertainers and sportswomen, Ann Moulds accepted the trophy in recognition of her incredible achievements.

Ann shook her head in stunned silence as her name was read out, and her friends cheered and hugged her as everyone in the room rose to their feet.

Ann said: "I am ­astonished to have won - just to have been nominated such incredible women was a real honour.

"So many people have supported me throughout the whole campaign, and I am very grateful to them all for helping me to put stalking in the spotlight, away from the shadows.

"Stalkers steal their victims' voices. So I lent them mine.

"What we have achieved is just the beginning."

One of the other ­finalists, Madalena Brown, was presented with the Editor's Award.

The 79-year-old grandmother, from Hamilton, spent six years lobbying local councillors and government officials for £1million in funding to create the Aveyron Centre, which supports teenagers and young adults with ­severe disabilities.

Her own son ­Stephen, who died aged 28 in 1999, was the inspiration behind Madalena's work and the centre continues to help disabled young people and their families to this day.

Evening Times editor Tony Carlin said Madalena was a ­"remark­able lady" with drive and determination.

An emotional Madalena said: "I'm over the moon - it is a real honour to be recognised."

The third prize of the evening, the Sports Award, was presented to Judy Murray, captain of the Ladies ­Federations Cup team and mother of Wimbledon champions Andy and Jamie.

Mr Carlin paid tribute to Judy's "dedication to offering tennis as an opportunity for all in society".

She said: "I'm amazed - I thought I was here to pay tribute to the five amazing finalists, not to win anything.

"My award pales into insignificance, though, alongside the achievements of Ann, Madalena and the ­other finalists."