FORMER Gala rugby star Chris Paterson has been nominated for a prestigious Glenfiddich Spirit of Scotland Award in the Sport category.

The Awards are now in their thirteenth year and were established by the independent, family- owned single malt whisky brand to recognise individuals who lead the way in various aspects of Scottish culture.

In February 2010, Chris became the first Scot to achieve 100 rugby caps for his country. He is up against competition from three other nominees - fellow rugby player Alastair Kellock, triathlete Catriona Morrison and a joint nomination for record-breaking rowers Leven Brown and Don Lennox.

Elizabeth Lafferty from Glenfiddich said: “The pioneering spirit shown by all of this year’s nominees is amazing. We firmly believe that it should be recognised and celebrated wherever possible and established the Glenfiddich Spirit of Scotland Awards to do just that. We wish all of the nominated candidates well in this year’s Awards.” There are nine categories in the Glenfiddich Spirit of Scotland Awards - Music, Art, Business, Environment, Sport, Writing, Screen, Food and Top Scot.

The winners of the Awards are determined by public vote and will be announced at a glittering ceremony in Edinburgh in December. To vote in this year’s Awards visit www.glenfiddich.com/spirit.