Amy Winehouse has been voted the ultimate heroine by youngsters in the United Kingdom.

Pete Doherty, who was jailed two weeks ago for breaking his probation order, was the second most popular ultimate hero among people under the age of 25.

Winehouse also proved popular in a vote which surveyed the general population, coming second behind Diana, Princess of Wales.

The UK’s ultimate hero in the poll, conducted by Sky, was former Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who came ahead of Elvis Presley.

Psychologist Donna Dawson said that the findings showed “what society defines as a 'hero' and a 'heroine' seems to differ greatly.

Dawson said that figures like Winehouse and Princess Diana were recognised because they have "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 with the exception of Churchill, are known for their talent, rather than their personality or the impact they have had on the world," she said.

(by Jason Gregory)