Janey up for Scotswoman gong

She was put forward by readers of Glasgow Evening Times in its annual search for those ‘who inspire with their courage and strength’.

The winner, to be announced on October 23, receives £5,000 for a charity of their choice.

In her citation, the Times said Godley was nominated for speaking frankly about her childhood abuse, which was detailed in her autobiography Handstands In the Dark, and helping jail the uncle who molested her, 30 years after the fact.

Journalist Shiela Hamilton wrote: ‘Janey is the inspiration for victims of abuse from all over the world. By helping herself, she is now helping others who tell her, "If you can do it, so can I".’

Godley, 45, also runs comedy workshops for teenagers and drama workshops for ex-addicts, and has helped charities dealing with domestic violence.

Godley said: ‘I am absolutely amazed that people feel inspired by the book.

‘It is a wonderful thing to be nominated and at last I can take my dad to something he will be finally be proud of.’

Last year’s winner was Sandra Brown, who set up a foundation to help sexually abused children and previous winners in the award’s 44-year history include Gwen Mayor, the primary teacher who died trying to save her pupils during the Dunblane massacre, and Susan Wighton, known as the Angel of Beirut for her work nursing the sick and injured in Palestinian refugee camps.

Click here to read the citation.

Published: 6 Oct 2006