WONDER women from all corners of the county have been put forward for the title - but only 10 people have made it to the finals of Worcestershire Woman of the Year.

Judges have spent the week interviewing the contenders and are due to make their decision soon.

The accolade is in aid of St Richard's Hospice and is split into three awards.

The Business Award is for a woman who has set up her own successful business and has demonstrated outstanding entrepreneurial skills.

Clare Cross is one of three finalists in the category and was nominated due to the success of her New Street-based call centre firm Leadline.

"I was nominated by my PA and telemarketing manager and I think it's such an honour," she said. "I set up the business from home in February 1997 and now we are in a 4,000sq ft complex and I employ 31 people."

The Achievement Award is for a woman who is a high achiever in her chosen career and whose contribution has made a significant impact on the local community.

The Voluntary Award recognises the woman who gives her time freely to help others.

"Every single person nominated for each award is worthy of special recognition as they all make a significant contribution to local life," said Brenda Sheridan, a former Worcester city councillor who chairs the judges.

"The judging panel is faced with the extremely difficult task of choosing overall winners."

Winners will be honoured at a special charity lunch at the Malvern Festival Theatre on Thursday October 2.

All proceeds from it, as well as income from a Women of the Year fund-raising campaign, will go to St Richard's Hospice.