Pauline Taylor, editor of the Northern Scot, Elgin, has been named Journalist of the Year for the Highlands and Islands.

Pauline received her award from Patricia Ferguson, MSP, Scottish Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport, at the Highlands and Islands Press Ball which was held at Nairn on Friday (3 February).

Pauline received £500 from the sponsors of the awards, Diageo, the world's premium drinks company, £300 of which goes to a charity of her choice.

Gordon Fyfe, chairman of the judging panel, said: "Pauline's forthright leading articles have demonstrated all the best attributes of an editor in tackling local issues, generating debate and challenging those in power to be accountable to the public they serve.
 
"She is hardworking, imaginative, principled, tenacious, brave and all the while fighting for her local communities and her readers. She encourages her staff to get involved in the community and leads from the front at all times."
 
Pauline, who has been editor of the Northern Scot since 2001, said: "An editor is only as good as the team he or she leads. I have tremendous support from a very committed and dedicated deputy editor, and a very loyal, talented and enthusiastic editorial team. How lucky can you get?"

A new charity in Shetland - Community Action for Trauma Support - will receive £1,000 as the result of donations of £500 each from John Johnston, BBC, (Environmental Journalist of the Year), and the Shetland Times (Newspaper of the Year). The RNLI at Mallaig will receive £100 from West Word, who won the Community Newspaper of the Year Award.

The Press Ball raised more than £3,000 for charity and this will be distributed equally among four organisations:

• S.N.A.P. (Special Needs Action Project);
• LEAD Scotland (Linking Education and Disability);
• Age Concern Scotland (Highland branch) and
• Highlands and Islands Tape Service for the Blind and Disabled.