MEET the 11 inspirational Wirral women all in the running to become Merseyside's Woman of the Year.
The annual awards aims to celebrate the achievements of local women and leave a legacy of strong role models for generations to come.
Finding and rewarding the 'unsung heroines of Merseyside', the judging panel for the awards receive many nominations which they have to narrow down to select the finalists.
It then comes down to the public to vote for Merseyside's Woman of the Year.
Other categories include: Inspirational Women; Women of Courage; Women’s Group; One To Watch; Social Impact; Young Female Apprentice and Women Making a Difference.
A public vote is now open to decide the overall Woman of the Year and closes on Monday, June 10.
Click here to vote.The winner will be announced at the annual ceremony on Friday, June 28.
Here are the Wirral finalists:
Angela Preston, Birkenhead
Angela is a three times bestselling author, Tedx speaker, radio presenter, and playwright, she is a wife to Barry and mum to her three sons. After walking away from a 20-year career due to sexual harassment she overcame depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts and credits her achievements to the support of family and proves that from the most difficult times in our lives can come great achievements. She believes that having courage to dream can turn the impossible into the possible - she empowers others to be great at being them - her passion is coaching children to achieve their dreams.
Mia Austin, Heswall
Mia was 21 when her life was turned upside down. She had a stroke and was left with Locked In Syndrome. Despite Mia has refused to give up and undertakes a lot of charity work, while also inspiring others.
Rachel Griffiths, Higher Bebington
Rachel is the founder of Mums 2 Marathons. She turned to running to lose weight, but in it she also found freedom from her battle with depression. She encourages others to love themselves for who they are through her encouraging and inspirational personality.
Jessica Gallier, New Ferry
Jessica has worked to break down the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health since her Dad was found dead at the age of 55. She has set up the The Martin Gallier Project, which educates families on how to complete “Suicide First Aid”.
Victoria Charlton, Prenton
Victoria Charlton is a dedicated, hardworking and courageous woman who, despite her own battle with a chronic, debilitating disease called Polycystic Kidney & Liver Disease (PKLD) continues to inspire young people to follow their dreams and never give up.
Rita Waters, Birkenhead
Rita Waters has been Chief Executive of the National Youth Advocacy Service (NYAS) for the past three years. The service has been made stronger under her leadership, bringing stability and turning the charity’s finances around.
Debbie Layfield, Claughton
Debbie was diagnosed with breast cancer just over 10 years ago. Now proudly cancer free, Debbie uses her personal experiences to inspire and help other cancer sufferers and their families.
Pam Smith, Wallasey
Pam, 77, was one of the first Yoga teachers in Merseyside and has been teaching Yoga full time for 50 years this year and is an inspiration to all as we age. She has helped thousands of people physically, mentally and spiritually.
Christine Allen, Oxton
Christine’s life has impacted more than 50,000 young people across Merseyside over a 33-year career, leading a unique and vibrant housing provision.
Maureen More & Margaret Grundy, Birkenhead
A duo who go out of their way to help others, Maureen and Margaret have given up their own time to help individuals and their local community. Both are inspirational women go above and beyond to help anyone or anything in need.
To vote for your Merseyside Woman of the Year please visit
https://merseysidewomenoftheyear.co.uk/mwoty-finalists/
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