These women have all been celebrated for their outstanding contributions to society

The results of the "Women of the Year" awards were announced on Monday with five winners chosen for their "perseverance and courage in the face of some of the most serious issues facing women today".

The 60th anniversary of the ceremony, which has "recognised, celebrated and inspired women of all backgrounds" since its inception in 1955, took place at the InterContinental Hotel in Park Lane, London, and the winners were chosen by a judging panel which included the likes of comedian Sandi Toksvig and Independent on Sunday editor Lisa Markwell.

Women of the Year award winners and organisers (back row, left to right):

- Cokie van der Velde, Médecins Sans Frontières sanitation expert - Barclays Woman of the Year (back row, far left)

- Pat Rogers, anti-youth violence campaigner - Lorraine Woman of the Year (back row, 2nd right)

- Jayne Senior, child exploitation campaigner - Good Housekeeping Woman of the Year (back row, far right)

- Jocelyn Bell Burnell, astrophysicist - Prudential Woman of the Year (front row, far left)

- Kris Hallenga, CoppaFeel! founder - DFS Woman of the Year (front row, far right)

More: Here's what the Women's Equality Party new leader has to say about the gender pay gap