The most eligible women: 26-50

26 JULIA NEUSTEIN

Managing director, 50
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

A great catch who is just waiting to be discovered. Neustein's interior design consultancy Interior Motives has an impressive list of clients that includes artists, footballers, actors and prominent business executives.

Fantasy Valentine

"Captain Jack Sparrow from the Pirates of the Caribbean films. I'm not a Johnny Depp fan, but I adore Captain Jack – he is everything our mothers warned us about, but I know I wouldn't be able to resist! We'd swap the rum for a bottle of tequila and would sail the Black Pearl around the Greek islands."

Turn-on

"A man with fire in his belly, who lives and loves life to the max."

Turn-off

"Glass-half-empty types who have hung up their dancing shoes."

In another life…

"I would be able to sing like a diva, dance like a prima ballerina and sleep like a baby."

27 HELENA GALLAGHER

Company director, 38
Glasgow and Ireland

Unique selling point

She has her own independent film, TV, radio and corporate video production company, Glasgow-based HG Productions, working with a diverse range of clients, from Ultimo to Auchentoshan Whisky, and manages a new band from Stornaway called Manor Park Elite. On top of that, she's an independent, creative, Irish free spirit with a love for life and a love for what she does.

Fantasy Valentine

She wouldn't mind hanging out with Caleb from Kings of Leon.

Turn-on

A sucker for a sense of humour, she likes fun-loving, outdoorsy guys and finds the possession of a season ticket to the football attractive.

Turn-off

Lateness – she hates to miss kick-off – and doesn't like bad manners and arrogance.

In another life…

She would like to swap places with the ultimate rock chick, Blondie's Debbie Harry.

28 CLAIRE-FRANCES LENNON

Communications assistant, 26
London

Unique selling point

As the communications assistant to Des Browne MP, she works at the House of Commons developing new media communication strategies for the Government. She has just returned from a trip to Washington DC to witness Barack Obama's inauguration.

Fantasy Valentine

If I had to choose, it would be Obama. I went to the inauguration and he is the most inspirational person I've ever seen. Unfortunately for me, he's married, but if he wasn't we would go for dinner in one of the White House's dining-rooms.

Turn-on

"Someone who can laugh at themselves. And I'd be really impressed by getting a mix tape or playlist made for me."

Turn-off

"I hate when people try to second-guess me."

In another life…

"I'd do it all over again, twice."

29 HELEN BATEMAN

Shoe designer, 43
Perthshire

Unique selling point

Exceptionally well-heeled during the week, but happy to jump into a pair of waders and go fishing at the weekend, Bateman has found the perfect balance of city glamour and country shabby chic. She'll find any excuse to party, and is passionate about all things Mediterranean. She's happiest when she's creating something, whether it be a shoe collection or renovating a building.

Fantasy Valentine

"A surprise – someone with elegant, old-fashioned manners yet masterful, in front of a roaring fire.

Turn-on

The Indian Ocean, Veuve Clicquot, chocolate truffles.

Turn-off

Men in cycling Lycra.

In another life…

"I would live on a houseboat on Kilifi Creek, in the Indian Ocean."

30 MINTY WOOLGAR

PR executive, 32
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

Having worked in advertising and PR in her native London for six years, Minty was lured back to Edinburgh (where she'd been a student) to do the PR for the Pleasance at the Festival last summer. Now working for VisitScotland, she says she has the best job in the world, "spreading the love for the country that gave us television, marmalade and the Krankies". When she's not rekindling her love for Scotland's capital, she's busy planning a long-anticipated trip to Mexico, and popping back down south every now and again for jellied eels and Babycham.

Fantasy Valentine

"I'd go to a Vegas casino with Kenny Rogers to see if he really does know when to hold 'em, when to fold 'em and when to walk away."

Turn-on

"A man who can sing Elvis songs, play the guitar and start a fire. Ideally, all at the same time."

Turn-off

"Cycling shorts, comb-overs, signet rings and Bruce Forsyth tap-dancing."

In another life…

"I'd be a cowgirl."

31 JACQUELINE SINCLAIR

TV producer and singer, 34
Glasgow

Unique selling point

As executive producer with the Comedy Unit, which has just opened a new office in London, she does a lot of travelling. She is also lead singer with the Glasgow girl-group All About the Dots.

Fantasy Valentine

"I would celebrate by doing a special robotic dance with whoever can bear to watch."

Turn-on

"I love snow, funny stories and rock'n'roll."

Turn-off

"Anyone who slags off Morrissey."

In another life…

"I'd become a brilliant supervillain."

32 LYNNE WILSON

Teacher, 29
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

"I'm mischievous and adventurous in spirit – and living proof that a maths teacher can be fun, not frumpy!"

Fantasy Valentine

"Sharing a pint of hot pear cider with Noel Fielding at Glastonbury, in our wellies."

Turn-on

"Open-minded people who love travelling and can make me laugh until it hurts."

Turn-off

"Boys who use hair-straighteners and who take longer to get ready than I do."

In another life…

"I would be Carol Vorderman's replacement on Countdown."

33 CLAIRE TELFER

Policy and parliamentary adviser, 31
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

As well as brains and beauty, she has a voice that could grace any Marks & Spencer advert. Working for Save the Children, she's proof that politics can be sexy.

Fantasy Valentine

Josh Lyman from The West Wing, "who would cook me dinner at home".

Turn-on

A sense of humour, someone who is a good cook, kindness, a social conscience and sexy eyes.

Turn-off

Liars, cheats and hairy backs.

In Another life…

"I'd be an interior designer or an intrepid explorer, travelling to far-off places, experiencing the wonders of the world and then writing amazing novels based on my adventures."

34 LISETTE MAY JOHNSTON

Multimedia journalist, 28
Glasgow

Unique selling point

A woman with a huge sense of adventure who rarely turns down a challenge, she is passionate about everything in her life, from her job to making soup. Alex Salmond once described her as the hardest-working woman in Scottish journalism, so she knows how to make an impact. She says she's outgoing and lively, and one of life's eternal optimists.

Fantasy Valentine

"The perfect way to spend Valentine's Day for me would be doing something unusual. So maybe a helicopter flight or scuba diving. I've interviewed actor Ralf Little several times and as well as being great-looking he is always polite and hilarious. I know he did a skydive recently, which shows he's up for a challenge, so he could keep me entertained on a date. I love good food, so I would top it off with an evening out."

Turn-on

"Someone who is enthusiastic about life. I like drive, ambition and someone who can make me laugh. If he looks like Christian Bale, that would be a bonus, and he has to like his food."

Turn-off

"Laziness, rudeness and dishonesty… and anyone who would rather stay at home in slippers."

In another life…

"I have done many amazing things, from filming out of helicopters to riding on tanks, so I'd be a stuntwoman.

35 SALLY RANKIN

Hypnotherapist, 32
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

As a hypnotherapist, Rankin would be great at ridding potential suitors of any phobias or bad habits they may have developed. She is also interested in art and literature, language and linguistics, astrology, astronomy and the great outdoors, so she's a bit of a renaissance woman.

Fantasy Valentine

"It would involve Johnny Depp or Joaquin Cortés, al fresco oysters and champagne, while gazing at a beautiful view. Johnny could take me to his private island if he likes – that would be perfect."

Turn-on

"A man who is direct and good with his hands. And passionate."

Turn-off

"Over-familiarity."

In another life…

"I would love to be an astronaut."

36 ANGELA MORTON

TV producer, 33
Stirling

Unique selling point

Angela says she has found her dream job producing STV's new children's show wknd@stv, which is broadcast on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Away from work, you'll find her travelling, shopping, socialising and generally having fun.

Fantasy Valentine

Nicky Byrne from Westlife. "We'd fly by private jet to Vegas, play blackjack, then hang out watching the Bellagio fountains while drinking Woo Woos."

Turn-on

Good arms, toned stomachs and beautiful teeth.

Turn-off

People who take themselves too seriously.

In another life…

"I'd be a top tennis player or travel the world learning to surf."

37 GEORGIE NICHOLSON

Singer-songwriter and band manager, 29
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

Music has been at the centre of her life, and a varied career has included appearances in musicals, performances with bands and even a session with Native American drummers in the Nevada desert. In 2004, she picked up her guitar and flew to New York to knock on the door of Sony Music. A&R loved her, wowed by her passionate and autobiographical lyrics. Since then, her songs have taken her around the world. Just watch out if you run into her – you could end up in one of her ballads.

Fantasy Valentine

"I would be very happy to celebrate Valentine's Day with Ewan McGregor, on the back of his motorbike, holding on tight and driving incredibly fast into the Cuban sunset. Then we'd finish the date with champagne on the pier at Cayo Guillermo. Is that too much to ask?"

Turn-on

"Laughter and kindness. There is nothing better than a good belly laugh to get me in the mood."

Turn-off

"Rudeness, especially in restaurants. If the man clicks at or is rude to the waiting staff, I'm off."

In another life…

"I'd pine after this one!"

38 DEBORAH LOVELL

Solicitor, 36
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

In her job as a partner heading the Commercial Property Team of the Year, at Anderson Strathern, she acts for developers and landowners in acquisitions and transport projects. She also works as a lecturer in legal training. When not following the letter of the law, she enjoys Body Combat classes and has taken flying lessons.

Fantasy Valentine

"If Mr April, from the 2009 calendar of the French rugby team Dieux du Stade was free, then great. Otherwise, Benicio Del Toro. My perfect day would be waking up together in a ski chalet, spending a great day on the slopes, winding down in an outdoor hot tub with a glass of champagne, then getting dressed up and going out for a good meal – followed by a bit of dancing if we still had the energy!"

Turn-on

"Dark hair, dark eyes, dark corners, dark deeds…"

Turn-off

"People hogging the mike at SingStar – never get between me and a karaoke mike. Ever."

In another life…

"The physio for the French rugby team would appeal…

39 JENNIFER NICOL

Personnel officer, 36
Stirling

Unique selling point

"I try to take a lighthearted view of life and pack in as much as possible. I enjoy good company and general socialising. I also help adults improve their literacy skills. As alumni relations manager at the University of Stirling, my mission is to gather those across the world back to Stirling's bosom… and someone to mine.

Fantasy Valentine

"I like Valentine's Day, but I also like to think you can make any day special if you're a thoughtful person. Saying that, I'm secretly hoping for a delivery of gorgeous red roses… For the perfect date, I'd whisky Andy Garcia off to an intimate hotel in Fiesole, Florence. We'd take in an opera then meander back to the hotel for a romantic dinner on the balcony. Then we'd retire to our private suite by the pool…"

Turn-on

A great smile, thoughtfulness, openness and fun, plus a suited'n'booted man with bags of charisma.

Turn-off

Arrogance, smarminess and moaners, plus scruffiness and fleeces.

In another life…

"I'd love to live in Italy. I'd be a holiday/social organiser and have my own small business."

40 SUZANNE GIBSON

Shop owner, 34
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

She is one of four finalists in the UK's Independent Home and Gift Store for 2009, and her shop, Eero & Riley, promotes innovative local artists and designers. Her friends say she is extremely sexy, very funny and bright, with a down-to-earth personality that makes you warm to her from the moment you meet her.

Fantasy Valentine

Gael Garcia Bernal. "Ideally, it would be frolicking in a winter wonderland (not Princes Street Gardens); somewhere snowy that inspires the romantic in me, and obviously I'd need to be there with someone who liked the same things."

Turn-on

"Catching a welcome glance that turns into mutually satisfying eye-contact, great chat and lots of smiling – simple chemistry."

Turn-off

"Very quiet, almost silent guys with nothing to say for themselves.

In another life… "As little as possible, as there's little chance of doing so in this one. Or I'd be a ski instructor in winter and a painter in the summer, travelling to beautiful locations."

41 ALISON SCOTT

Networking director, 38
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

She is one of Scotland's most influential and well-connected women, thanks to her role as membership services director of Edinburgh's top-flight business network, Aeolus. It's not all work and no play, though – the fun-loving Scott has a wicked sense of humour.

Fantasy Valentine

"Being a singleton on Valentine's Day is never much fun, so I usually meet up with other single friends for a good gossip over a glass of wine. If I was in a relationship, though, I'd love to be in Africa, on safari, sipping a sundowner and watching the animals stroll past."

Turn-on

"I'm a sucker for tall, blue-eyed men with good brains and a good sense of humour."

Turn-off

"Selfish, poor conversationalists with facial hair."

In another life… "I was in Kenya last year, helping out in the slums of Nairobi, and would love to spend more time there working with disadvantaged people."

42 MARGARET SCOTT

Graphic designer, 42
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

"I run MBS Graphic Design, a small but growing design consultancy. I love my work and particularly enjoy meeting different people and learning about what they do. Each day my 'to do' list is different, and that's a great motivator. It keeps things fresh and exciting."

Fantasy Valentine

"I'm all for over-blown romantic gestures and Valentine's Day provides the perfect excuse. I would celebrate with the delicious Davina McCall. By the magic of TV, we would find all the people that didn't want to be on their own, and I'd get to say, 'I'm coming to get you.' Then we'd have a big, lavish party with music and dancing. Good times."

Turn-on

Enthusiasm, clean shoes, knowing the art of a good surprise.

Turn-off

Cynicism, too much talk, dropping litter in the street.

In another life…

I'd be Suzi Quatro.

43 EMILY GOODBRAND

Personnel manager, 33
London

Unique selling point

This Edinburgh girl can sort out your finances for you. "In banking and still employed, so one of a dying breed," as she puts it herself, Goodbrand has a high-flying career as European head of HR for an investment bank. She's based in London and has to travel a lot for work, but her heart remains north of the border. She thrives on this stressful environment and is a great bet in the credit crunch. Get out there and catch her while you can.

Fantasy Valentine

"A cosy little dinner with Paul Bettany in a fabulous New York restaurant."

Turn-on

Laughter and great conversation.

Turn-off

Poor manners.

In another life…

"I would learn to speak French fluently, live in the Alps and ski as much as I possibly could."

44 KYLIE GRIFFITHS

Fundraising and events co-ordinator, 25
Aberdeen

Unique selling point

She might be 6ft tall, but that hasn't stopped Griffiths making high heels her trademark. Tasked this year with organising one of the biggest parties in the north-east, the 35th birthday celebrations for Peacock Visual Arts, she looks set to make a big impact on the contemporary arts scene.

Fantasy Valentine

"Going somewhere hot with someone hot."

Turn-on

"Travelling, getting my feet tickled and Heat magazine."

Turn-off

"I turn off Jeremy Kyle."

In another life… "I would be as happy and content as I am in this one."

45 NICKI BARNETT

Events firm owner, 35
Perthshire

Unique selling point

As a fun, compassionate, passionate and most importantly young and single female, she thinks she is a good example of the many eligible ladies living in this country. Not only does she own the events and accommodation company Highland Lodges, Barnett describes herself as having an optimistic and sometimes romantic view on life, enjoying great friends and great laughs along the way.

Fantasy Valentine

"I would celebrate the date with Scotland rugby player Simon Taylor. We would watch a match in the afternoon and then warm ourselves up at a remote log cabin with a roaring log fire, where we'd enjoy an evening of fine food, wine and champagne."

Turn-on

"A good sense of humour – slightly on the wicked side – romantic dinners, country walks, thunderstorms, good teeth, strong hands."

Turn-off

"Arrogance, obsession with money, football shirts, bad teeth and beer bellies."

In another life…

"I don't know that I'd do many things differently. I would like to be musical and spend time travelling the globe to help those not as fortunate as us in Scotland."

46 JACQ KELLY

Communications worker, 29
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

She has been involved in politics behind the scenes for many years, previously working for Holyrood magazine and being active at a grassroots level – co-founding a pro-choice organisation and working as a freelance journalist. She is currently putting the finishing touches to her first novel, and can usually be found checking out the latest exhibits at the national galleries or training for her first 10k run.

Fantasy Valentine

"Something simple, like a romantic walk in Edinburgh's Queen Street Gardens would be perfect, and a bottle of something fizzy (no, not Irn-Bru). There are a number of people I'd ask, but Cécile de France is near the top of that list."

Turn-on

"I love meeting someone who totally grabs my attention and engages with me in a way I never thought they would – or could."

Turn-off

"Don't try to mother or smother me; I will run away."

In another life…

"I once applied to be a spy with MI5. Lucky for them they turned me down, as I'd have been a complete liability, but something about the furtive and covert lifestyle of a spy still holds some sort of appeal for me."

47 BEVERLEY SUSAN COTTRELL

Property lawyer, 41
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

She is intelligent, fabulous, fun, beautiful and mischievous, according to friends, with a wild streak thrown in for good measure. In her free time she runs, plays badminton, climbs Munros and skis, and has just entered the Edinburgh half-marathon. She also likes to swap trainers for Jimmy Choos to indulge in champagne and fine dining, and enjoys exotic travel.

Fantasy Valentine

A weekend away with Hugh Jackman at the Three Chimneys on Skye. "Travelling in style in an old E–type Jaguar. Picnic in the car overlooking the Cuillins. Tartan rug. Hot chocolate with a splash of brandy. Finished off with a sophisticated meal, flirtatious eye-contact, quality chat and lots of fun. Perfect!"

Turn-on

"I love a cheeky smile, sparkly eyes and a sharp sense of humour."

Turn-off

"Beige shoes and holey socks. Or a moustache with food attached. And comb-overs are a no-no."

In another life…

"I would be living in Tuscany in an old farmhouse, where I could indulge my passions for food, wine and passionate people."

48 LESLEY CLARK

Deputy managing director, 35
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

She is a high-powered player in the fast-moving world of PR, who works hard over long hours at Weber Shandwick Scotland. She doesn't fill the gin-swilling image of her trade, though she enjoys a glass of wine accompanied by good conversation with friends. She's smart yet down-to-earth, and her friendliness isn't spin – it's natural.

Fantasy Valentine

"I'm not much of a fan of Valentine's Day, and given that the date marks St Valentine's execution, he probably wouldn't be a big fan either. As for celebrating it this year, I'd usually be relaxing, reading a book or the papers, climbing or walking (well, more like wandering) – all fuelled by lots of strong tea. But as it's on a weekend, I might be up north with friends."

Turn-on

"A cracking sense of humour – even when the chips are down – is always an admirable quality."

Turn-off

Bad manners or unnecessary rudeness.

In another life…

"Pretty much the same as I am doing now – but I might take a bit more time out to admire the view and enjoy my surroundings. However, it's not too late to change that."

49 PAMELA CRAIG

Sales manager, 38
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

"I have a good work-life balance and love having fun. I always have a positive outlook on life, a great circle of friends and I'm very independent." Craig has worked hard to get to where she is today, and says she is looking forward to a bright future with Harvey Nichols.

Fantasy Valentine "I'd do something fun, possibly a day rally driving followed by a romantic dinner."

Turn-on Confidence.

Turn-off People who takes themselves too seriously.

In another life… "Be a man! On a serious note, I've achieved many things and have no regrets, so I'm happy to live this one to the full."

50 DENISE HAWKES

Make-up artist, 36
Edinburgh

Unique selling point

Hawkes has worked in the beauty industry for 18 years, and is the retail manager for award-nominated Scottish apothecary DollyLeo.

Fantasy Valentine

"I am an old-fashioned romantic and I love to send and receive flowers or a card anonymously. It's great to know someone is thinking of you. It's just so annoying if you can't work out who they're from. My ideal date would be a meal at any of James Thomson's establishments, but the company is more important. If Keanu, George, etc, are too busy, then I would spend it with an interesting, witty and attractive man. Know anyone?"

Turn-on

"I find honesty and good manners a real turn-on, and just knowing the guy has made an effort."

Turn-off

"Ill-mannered, pushy guys who think they're 'all that' and make stuff up to impress."

In another life…

"I would be an actress in CSI – I love it."