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Irvine’s MP has been named as one of Scotland’s most outstanding women of 2016.

Dr Philippa Whitford was announced as one of the Outstanding Women of Scotland for 2016 by the Saltire Society on Saturday.

The Central Ayrshire SNP MP attended a reception in Glasgow Women’s Library where she was presented with a limited edition print by Anupa Gardner - a work which was inspired by the Fishwives of Newhaven and unveiled as part of the ceremony.

The campaign celebrates women from all walks of life who have made a significant contribution to Scottish culture and society.

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Every year, members of the public are invited to nominate the women they feel should be recognised in this way, 10 of whom are then chosen by the Society of Young Publishers to receive the accolade.

The inaugural event was held in 2015 to coincide with International Women’s Day when the first ten recipients, including First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, were inducted into the Outstanding Women of Scotland community.

Speaking about the award, Dr Whitford said: “I am absolutely delighted to be named as one of this year’s Outstanding Women of Scotland and would like to thank those who nominated me. It was a huge surprise when I found out I had been chosen to receive the accolade and I am very honoured to be inducted into the Community with such an esteemed group of women.

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“I am flattered to be on the list with several cultural icons, such as Annie Lennox and JK Rowling, but having been one of the first female consultant surgeons in Scotland, I have a particular admiration for Lady Hazel Cosgrove, the first woman judge in the Supreme Court, and Karen Vousden, the Director of the Beatson Institute.

“These two women have been trailblazers in their respective fields, reaching the top of very male dominated professions, and serve as a great inspiration to women everywhere.

“As a breast cancer surgeon for 30 years, I feel privileged to have been able to care for my own patients and, through developing the breast cancer standards for Scotland, also contribute to improving the quality of breast cancer services across the country.

“Now, having entered the world of politics and been elected to the Westminster Parliament, I find myself in another ‘man’s world’.

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“Being the SNP Westminster spokesperson for health, I am fortunate to have a role in which I can use my experience to make a significant contribution nationally.

“Locally, my current focus is on helping facilitate community projects and the further development of the major industries in my constituency, including aerospace and tourism.

“Having wanted to be a surgeon since my early teens, there were no female role models for me to look up to.

“Indeed, even at medical school the idea of me becoming a surgeon was scoffed at.

“This is why, in both my roles as a surgeon and a politician, I feel a huge responsibility to encourage girls and young women to ignore stereotypes and follow their aspirations no matter which career path they wish to pursue.”

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