THAT'S THE SPIRIT - PATERSON SCOOPS TOP AWARD

Scotland and Edinburgh star Chris Paterson has secured yet another outstanding accolade, coming out on top in the sports category of the 2010 Glenfiddich Spirit of Scotland Awards.

Paterson, who became the first Scottish male to win 100 caps back in February, was honoured at a ceremony at the Mansfield Traquair venue in the capital on Thursday night.

A consulting panel picked the nominees, including Paterson's Scotland colleague Al Kellock, with a public vote deciding the winners.

Paterson enthused: "I'm very much a team player, so it's quite humbling to be recognised in this way.

"I was really honoured just to receive a nomination, so to win the award was something really special.

"I'd like to thank everyone who voted for me, and the organisers of the event for what was a wonderful evening."

Other winners at the awards included singer Paolo Nutini and film star Martin Compston.

Our picture shows Paterson and Top Scot award winner Mark Beaumont, the record-breaking round the world cyclist.