AN Inverclyde medical professional has been named as a finalist for a top national nursing prize.

The Royal College of Nursing's (RCN) annual nurse of the year awards recognise excellence in the vocation and celebrate the commitment and care provided by staff across the country.

Margaret Harkin, an in-reach district nurse with Inverclyde health and social care partnership, is one of three contenders who could take home the adult nursing award - aimed at those who have succeeded in raising standards of care for their patients and service users and have made an outstanding contribution to the care of adults.

Margaret is listed alongside a Glasgow-based senior addiction nurse and a Parkinson's nurse specialist for NHS Highland.

The winners of 10 other categories will be announced at a glittering ceremony on May 23 at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.

The prestigious overall RCN Scotland Nurse of the Year Award will also be selected from the registered nurse winners from the eligible categories.

Nominations came in from all corners of health and social care, spanning the NHS acute and community services to GP practices, care homes and the third sector.

Julie Lamberth, RCN Scotland board chair, said: "I am thrilled that we have the opportunity to showcase the innovation and commitment of nurses, nursing support workers and nursing students across Scotland.

"Regardless of the outcome, all our finalists exemplify the daily dedication of nursing staff in delivering the best of nursing care for the people of Scotland."

Colin Poolman, RCN Scotland director, added: "The calibre of submissions was exceptional, and we hope the finalists, as well as anyone who was nominated, feels the love and appreciation people have for the work they do."