Heroine Amy Winehouse?

Apr 23, 2008, 12:45 GMT

British soul singer Amy Winehouse EPA/STEFFEN SCHMIDT

Amy Winehouse has been voted the ultimate heroine in a new poll.

The troubled singer - who has battled with drug addictions and fluctuating weight - beat icons such as Diana, Princess of Wales, Mother Teresa and Florence Nightingale to be voted the greatest heroine among under British 25-year-olds.

In the male category of the Sky.com poll, Pete Doherty - who is currently in jail for drug-related offences - finished second only to British soccer star Steven Gerrard.

Psychologist Donna Dawson said of the findings: "The majority of the top 10 women chosen, such as Diana, Princess of Wales and Amy Winehouse, seem to portray a certain sense of vulnerability or have had to fight against some adversity in their lives.

"By comparison, the male heroes are generally much stronger, dominant figures, and are known for their talent, rather than their personality or the impact they have had on the world. While we seem to admire male icons, we seem to need to identify with our female ones."

Angelina Jolie, Victoria Beckham and Kylie Minogue also featured in the heroines list.

Kanye West, Arctic Monkeys star Alex Turner and Formula One racing driver Lewis Hamilton appeared in the heroes category.

(C) BANG Media International