STV's entertainment reporter Laura Boyd crowned Scottish Influencer of the Year

STV’s entertainment reporter Laura Boyd has been named Scottish Influencer of the Year.

The awards, which were held in the Glasgow Radisson Red Hotel on Sunday afternoon, span across 15 prestigious categories and aim to recognise Scotland’s stars of social media and digital platforms.

Nominees include storytellers, vloggers, podcasters and tourism ambassadors as well as new breakthrough talents.

Receiving the top award, Laura said: “I’m completely overwhelmed and truly delighted to win this award. I don’t think of myself as an influence but if my sharing of life with cancer, surrogacy or anything I’ve been through can help inspire someone to never give up, that means the world.”

Laura, who told she had chronic myeloid leukaemia in 2009, has inspired people with her story and charity fundraising.

She has also shared her powerful story of surrogacy after doctors had advised Laura that it was too risky for her to consider falling pregnant, as a result of daily chemotherapy tablets

In 2019, she welcomed baby Penelope with husband Steven after his sister Jayne offered to be a surrogate for the couple.

As entertainment reporter with STV News and as presenter of What’s On Scotland she has interviewed some of the biggest stars of music and screen from Lewis Capaldi to Robbie Williams.

In a post on Twitter, Laura said: “Erm, I’ve just won Scottish Influencer of the Year. Beyond overwhelmed and thrilled.”

Laura received congratulations from across Scottish media.

Fellow STV Presenter Emma Cameron said: “My daily inspiration. So proud of you, and so thankful for everything you do for me and for everyone around you. The best influencer.”

Monica Lennon MSP said: “Congratulations, Laura. We need inspiring and positive role models like you more than ever!”