IT WAS, in the words of a woman who should know, an evening to remember.

 

Evening Times 2009 SWOTY Margot Whiteford, the consultant geneticist who campaigns tirelessly for the Scottish Spina Bifida Association, summed up the feelings of everyone in the City Chambers' grand banqueting hall.

"It's a wonderful place to be, full of fantastic women, doing extraordinary things," she smiled.

Another former winner of the title, Erin McNeill, said she was delighted to be part of the SWOTY 'club'.

"It's such an honour to be part of this amazing group of women," said Erin, who became our Golden Jubilee winner in 2012. The 23-year-old, our youngest ever winner, survived horrific burns to campaign for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the British Red Cross.

Anne Ledgerwood, general manager of event sponsor St Enoch Centre, said it was a privilege to be part of the event for the eighth year running and paid tribute to winner Cara Henderson.

"Cara was only a teenager when she dared to stand up and speak out against sectarianism," said Anne.

"After the brutal murder of her friend, Celtic supporter Mark Scott, Cara launched Nil By Mouth, Scotland's only charity dedicated to tackling religious bigotry.

"For 20 years, she has worked tirelessly to change attitudes - at times, putting her own life at risk. She is a truly inspirational figure to women and men alike."

Anne also paid tribute to Nicola Sturgeon, winner of the Editor's Award.

"Nicola Sturgeon was also only a teenager when she nailed her colours to the mast and joined the SNP," said Anne.

"After working as a lawyer, she became one of Scotland's first MSPs in 1997 and in 2007 caused shockwaves by winning the Govan seat.

"As the first woman to lead the Scottish Government, Nicola continues to push the boundaries and I welcome her commitment to helping other women smash the glass ceiling to smithereens."

In what was often a very moving evening, it was up to Elaine C Smith to provide the laughs - and she did so with gusto.

Cheerleaders at election counts, the Commonwealth Games and life according to glossy mags all featured in her speech, which had the room in stitches.

"There are so many wonderful women, with incredible stories to tell, here in this room tonight," she said. "What they have in common is that they have all stopped for a moment and said - hold on a second, this isn't right. And they have done something about it."

Other guests said it had been a delight to attend the event.

Comedian Karen Dunbar said: "It's a pleasure to be part of such a special night - here's to all the women of Scotland."

Actress Libby McArthur said: "SWOTY is one of my favourite nights of the year. It's such an incredible celebration and how the judges decide on a winner, I have no idea - all are worthy of the title."

Event host Cathy McDonald said: "It's great to see so many former winners of the title here tonight and also, to see the next generation of SWOTYs coming through. It's always a very emotional, inspirational evening and it's great to be part of it."