Erin McNeill is lucky to be alive following a fire which left her badly injured, but since then she has shown immense strength and determination and an insatiable appetite for safety campaigning.

Despite still requiring surgery she intends to continue her fund-raising and training to allow her to offer help similar to that which saved her life.

The qualities Erin has displayed have earned her a place in the ranks of some of Scotland’s most inspirational people who have held the title in the award’s 50-year history.

The finalists again were women from various walks of life who have overcome adversity, achieved something truly remarkable or worked to improve the lives of others.

For 50 years Scotswoman Of The Year has provided the opportunity to recognise these achievements and the list again shows there is no shortage of strong inspirational women to ensure it will continue long into the future.

The Evening Times congratulates Erin McNeill and all the finalists and is proud to be associated with an award that recognises the very best qualities of women in Scotland.