Singer Lulu and feminist writer Dr Nawal El Saadawi were among those recognised at the 56th annual Women of the Year Lunch in London today (17 October).

They were two of a handful of women honoured for their talent, courage, dedication, and achievements at the annual event, attended by 400 inspirational women across the UK (including Stylist's editor Lisa Smosarski).

Lulu won the Sacla’ Women of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award, while El Saadawi was presented with a Women of the Year Outstanding Achievement Award.

Other winners include Katie Piper, who hit headlines with her courageous spirit following a horrific acid attack, and Jackie Millerchip, who has dedicated twenty years of her life to looking after special needs children.

Baroness Helena Kennedy QC, President of the Women of the Year, said: : "The magic of this event is that it does what no other awards ceremony manages to do. It brings together the most fabulous women from the widest range of geographical, social, ethnic and political backgrounds – from the very well-known to unsung heroines doing outstanding work in their community.

"Our special winners today highlight this: from the incredible Lulu, a national icon whose career has spanned decades yet continues to go from strength to strength, to a group of hugely talented medical professionals making a difference to the lives of wounded British troops; and from one of our most brave and active young campaigners, Katie Piper, to Nawal El Sadaawi, who – as she approaches her landmark 80th birthday – is still inspiring students and women to fight for their beliefs.

"Their achievements, dedication and passion are an inspiration to women everywhere, encouraging us all to fulfill our ambitions, support others and stand up for what we believe in."

Commenting on her award, Lulu said, "When I attended the Women of the Year Lunch last year I was so moved by the amazing women I met and the inspiring work they do in their communities, nationwide and indeed world wide. To be invited back again as a winner is beyond my wildest expectations and I am both humbled and thrilled. What I have learned is that when women roll up their sleeves, there is no end to what we can achieve."

See below for a full list of winners from the awards.

The 2011 Women of the Year winners

Debby Edwards, Victoria Mulleady, Sgt Lauren Odell , Kate Sherman, Surgeon Commander Sarah Stapley and Sarah Winters - Barclays Women of the Year Award

Dr Nawal El Saadawi - Good Housekeeping Women of the Year Outstanding Achievement Award

Lulu - Sacla’ Women of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award

Katie Piper - Sainsbury’s Women of the Year “You Can” Award

Jackie Millerchip - ITV 1’s Lorraine Inspirational Woman of the Year Award

2011 Women of the Year awards