THE finalists for the Rossendale Woman of the Year 2017 have been announced.

Fundraising sisters Denise Dott and Brenda Bottomley, from Haslingden, Dementia Friends Champion Carole Watchorn from Crawshaw Booth and Rossendale Special Ski club organiser Alison de Vial are in the running to be crowned the borough’s most inspiring woman.

Each of the women have dedicated a lot of their time to improving their communities in one form or another.

The competition is run by Rossendale Hospice’s special events committee.

For more than a decade the hospice has recognised and celebrated the achievements of remarkable women from the area.

Fundraising manager Sam Morris said: “This award gives everyone an opportunity to honor amazing women who give a significant contribution in our community and awards them with the recognition they so richly deserve.”

The winner will be selected at an afternoon tea and fashion show at the Red Hall Hotel in Bury on Friday.

Mrs Dott and Mrs Bottomley will be classed as one finalist.

Sheena Byrom, a midwifery consultant, who was awarded an OBE, will be speaking at the event.