The leader of the Scottish National Party and Scotland’s First Minister won the top spot ahead of her predecessor Alex Salmond, who came in fourth place.

Tennis player Andy Murray and comedian Billy Connolly came second and third.

The poll - conducted by YouGov - analysed profile data of 30,000 people in Scotland to rank their favourite out of 5,000 celebrities and public figures.

On their website, YouGov said: “This is a remarkable feat for a politician – [Sturgeon] outperforms national treasures like David Attenborough and Judi Dench whose careers carry none of the risk for offense or division exemplified by electioneering.”

“Speaking to a party now four times larger than this time last year, Nicola Sturgeon roused respect and adoration from her supporters at the packed SNP conference in October.”

The top 10 also included the Queen and the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton.

“Interestingly, alongside Scottish nationalists the British monarchy receives a significant level of positive feeling and reach,” said YouGov.