Nicola Sturgeon a winner at gay and lesbian awards

Ms Sturgeon with two of the event's guests. Picture: Robert Perry

Nicola Sturgeon scooped “Politician of the Year” at the glitzy event held in the foyer of the Grand Central Hotel.

The inaugural awards ceremony, with our sister paper Scotland on Sunday as media partner, was hosted by comedienne Karen Dunbar in front of an audience made up of political leaders, journalists, community groups and organisations from across the public and private spheres.

Singer-songwriter Horse McDonald performed at the event along with Pop Idol winner Michelle McManus and Glasgow favourites Robert and May Miller. There were 15 award categories and two special awards including the Outstanding Campaigner Award and Journalist of the Year.

Scott Cuthbertson, Development Coordinator for the Equality Network, said: “We are very excited to be hosting the Equality Network’s inaugural Scottish LGBTI Awards. The past year has been an amazing year for LGBTI equality with the first same-sex marriages happening across Scotland after many years of campaigning. Progress on LGBTI equality and human rights would not be possible without the hard work and support of many people, groups and organisations from all over Scotland – it’s those people we are celebrating at these awards. Our nominees represent the best advocates for equality and human rights in Scotland.”

He continued: “Our Lifetime Achievement Award has been awarded to Derek Ogg QC for his numerous accomplishments in the field of LGBTI equality over many years, and in particular his work on the decriminalisation of sex between men in Scotland, which took place thirty-five years ago this year.

“The second special award, Equality Network Friend for Life has been awarded to Anne and Joe Patrizio, from Parents Enquiry Scotland, for their long-standing work supporting parents of LGBT people. We would like to congratulate all the winners.”