Nominees could include heart patients, fundraisers, campaigners, scientists or health professionals

Scots are being asked to nominate their Heart Heroes for a charity award.

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) Scotland awards celebrate individuals and groups who are fighting for every heartbeat, such as heart patients, fundraisers, campaigners, scientists or health professionals.

Nominations are sought across four categories: inspiration, young hero, heart health professionals and fighting spirit.

James Cant, BHF Scotland's director, said: "We are very lucky to have passionate, dedicated and enthusiastic supporters. These awards are a way to recognise our heart patients, their families and the people who fundraise for us. All those fighting for a world in which people do not die prematurely from heart disease.

"Coronary heart disease is still Scotland's single biggest killer and nearly every family has been affected one way or another, whether they've felt the sudden devastation of losing someone to a heart attack, or they're caring for a child or teenager born with congenital heart disease.

"Who has inspired you with their drive and determination to fight for every heartbeat? They might be someone who's improving services for heart patients, a fundraiser who's brilliant at organising community events or a heart patient who's inspiring others by overcoming daily challenges.

"It's really easy to nominate your friend, colleague or relative and they could be one of our Heart Heroes in 2017."

Three-year-old Robbie Hughes was named Young Heart Hero 2016. Robbie was born with serious heart problems but after life-saving open heart surgery, he is now an energetic boy living a full life.

He has inspired family and friends to raise over £1,000 for BHF Scotland, as well as thousands for other charities, and to raise awareness of heart health.

Nominations can be made online on the BHF Scotland website until Friday 10 February. A shortlist will then be drawn up and put out to public online voting in April ahead of the awards ceremony in Edinburgh in June.