A University of the West of Scotland student is to represent Central Scotland in a prestigious national property competition.

Hannah Simpson studying Civil Engineering competed against nine other students studying on built environment degree courses, to win the regional heat of the ninth Association of Women in Property (WiP) National Student Awards. She will now go through to the national final at Claridge’s in London, on 22nd September when she will compete against eleven other young women from across the UK.

Katherine Pollock, chairman of the Central Scotland branch of WiP, congratulated Hannah on her win, and said: “Hannah has done incredibly well to get this far. These awards challenge the entrants to really think hard about the work they’re doing and the impact they as individuals might have on the built environment.

“The judges, who are all from different property disciplines, are looking for someone pretty special as, after all, these young women are the future of the industry. Women in Property wishes Hannah every success in the national Final. We know she’ll do Central Scotland proud.”

Graeme Hadden of awards sponsor, Land Engineering, added: “We are pleased to be involved with these awards because we really do see their value, not just for the young women taking part but also the benefit to the industry. Recognising this talent at an early stage and helping them to sharpen their skills as they progress into their chosen careers is invaluable for them and vital for their future employers.”

Hannah receives a cheque for £300 and a trophy.

She said: “I’m really thrilled. I was amazed when my University nominated me for these awards because I know the competition is pretty tough but it’s been a great experience, I’ve learned a lot and I’m so pleased I’ve made it through to the Final. I’d like to thank the judges for putting their faith in me.”

In addition to Hannah, there were nine other regional finalists, all of whom were nominated by their Universities. They were invited to go before a judging panel of industry experts, where they were questioned on a piece of coursework and topical industry issues.

The finalists were:-

From Heriot Watt University,

from Glasgow University,

from Edinburgh Napier,

from Edinburgh University,

From Glasgow Caledonian University,

The national ‘Best of Best’ black tie dinner will be held at Claridge’s on Tuesday 22nd September.