WOMEN from all walks of life, from all over the country, will gather in the City Chambers tonight to hear who has been crowned 52nd Evening Times Scotswoman of the Year.

The stunning surroundings of Glasgow City Council's grand banqueting hall will host the 2014 presentation, supported by St Enoch Centre.

Three months, dozens of nominations and a tough judging session all come down to this one moment - when the country's most inspiring woman is awarded the title.

Last year's winner, anti-stalking campaigner Ann Moulds, will hand over the reins to one of six, superb finalists.

Maria Righetti has worked tirelessly to raise funds for Scottish research into Parkinson's Disease, after her husband was diagnosed with the condition at the unusually young age of 31.

"When I heard I was nominated I was overwhelmed," smiles Maria, who organises the annual Millport Run, which attracts hundreds of participants. "It's very humbling."

Michael says he is proud of his wife for everything she does. "Maria deserves to be nominated," he says. "I think she is amazing."

After the suicide of her 22-year-old son, Laura Nolan set up the Joshua Nolan Foundation to help troubled young people get counselling.

"The response from people has been overwhelming," she says. "To be nominated for SWOTY is surreal, but such an honour."

Counsellor and psychotherapist Carol-Ann Chapman Gibb says the Foundation is providing a vital service.

"Laura is remarkable - she is dealing with her own grief, and yet she has such care and compassion for others," she says. "She is very courageous."

Clydeside Action on Asbestos chairperson Phyllis Craig has been fighting for the rights of people affected by asbestos poisoning for 20 years.

She was nominated by 69-year-old grandfather Charlie Bridgewater, who explains: "Phyllis has helped me, and many others, cope with the life-threatening condition mesothelioma. She is a fighter, and she gives you hope."

Phyllis said: "I am truly honoured to be nominated, but very surprised."

Paralympic sprinter Libby Clegg, who won Scotland's first Commonwealth Games athletics gold for 20 years at last summer's event in Glasgow, said she was delighted to be nominated.

"I'm so pleased, it's such an honour," said Libby, who is registered blind. "Glasgow was amazing in the summer, and I can't wait to come back to the city for this fantastic event."

Scotland's first female First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, said she was honoured to be included on "an amazing shortlist".

"I feel unworthy," she smiled. "I am a politician, and these women have campaigned and done quite extraordinary things."

Cara Henderson set up anti-sectarianism charity Nil by Mouth when she was a teenager, and over the last 15 years has been the driving force in changing attitudes across Scotland.

"Being nominated for SWOTY is a real honour and a tribute to everyone who works so hard for the campaign," she said.

Tony Carlin, editor of the Evening Times, said: "Scotswoman of the Year has a proud tradition of honouring women who do extraordinary things to make life better for others - often in the face of huge personal adversity.

"This year is no exception, and our magnificent finalists are truly inspirational. Tonight promises to be a fantastic event."

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