THE list of past winners is nothing short of inspirational and the search for the next begins today For many decades now the Scotswoman of the Year has honoured remarkable women who have improved life for countless people, far and wide.

THE list of past winners is nothing short of inspirational and the search for the next begins today For many decades now the Scotswoman of the Year has honoured remarkable women who have improved life for countless people, far and wide.

From last year's winners, Jean Donnachie and Noreen Real who fought against dawn raids on asylum seekers in Glasgow to children's campaigner Sandra Brown and Thai orphanage champion Tracy Cosgrove, all ordinary women with extraordinary courage.

We know the competition will be immense and this is your chance to nominate your choice for Scotswoman of the Year.

New cancer ward a tonic for teens

CANCER wards are grim places and when teenagers are involved the contrast with youth makes it even more sad.

So any effort to create a brighter and more comfortable environment can only help as they battle the illness.

Sufferers like Allistair Boyd have raised a remarkable sum of cash towards the Yorkhill ward for teenagers and deserve our admiration.

It is tragic Allistair didn't live to see the ward and the difference it will make to young people and their families.

But his family can be proud he will be helping many others in their hour of need.