I called it - as a TV writer I knew these brilliant women deserved awards before the NTAs announced first all-female drama shortlist

The public have spoken, and now the women are making history - the National Television Awards (NTA) voters have selected an all-female shortlist in the best drama performance category for the first time ever.

As a TV writer, I am both incredibly excited by this, and also felt it in my blood that these incredible women were going to get the recognition they deserved.

First up, the impossibly talented Sheridan Smith has been nominated for her performance as campaigner Ann Ming in ITV's true crime series I Fought The Law.

Always an absolute powerhouse, Sheridan doesn't put a foot wrong in telling the story of one mother's long fight to change the law to get justice for her murdered daughter.

If you haven't seen it yet, all four episodes are available on ITVX, and I guarantee the hauntingly devastating story will stay with you for a long time after the credits have finished rolling - and a poignant cameo at the very end will leave even the most hardened viewer sobbing.

Another small screen legend, Ruth Jones has been nominated in the category for her role as Elena Ravenscroft in Netflix thriller Run Away.

Well known for her comedy acting and writing, Ruth shows her range in a very straight role as a firearms officer turned private investigator pulled into a dark web of secrets and death in the adaptation of a Harlan Coben thriller.

As one of the most bingeable shows you'll ever see, clear a massive space in your diary if you are yet to see this one. This will allow you to get through the eight episodes without having to take a break, because you won't be able to tear your eyes from this one.

Next up is Vicky McClure for the role of Lana Washington in Trigger Point. One of the most versatile, memorable actresses of her generation, nobody does thrillers quite like Vicky.

There's three seasons of this gripping show on ITVX, and if you like relentless threat in the form of the utter precarious nature of bomb disposal, this is for you. Season 4 is also arriving this autumn, so get the other three firmly under your belt in readiness.

I definitely let out a scream when I found out Ella Bruccoleri had been shortlisted for her portrayal of Mary in The Other Bennet Sister.

Now, this is one of the most joyful, life affirming, boundary breaking shows you'll ever see. The sort that I mentioned to absolutely everyone who would listen, in the hope they'd watch it so I could talk endlessly about every second of it to someone other than my cats.

The 10-parter is based on author Janice Hadlow's 2020 novel of the same name, reimagining Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice through the eyes of the overlooked Mary Bennet.

Viewers are treated to a glimpse of what Mary's life could've been if she'd been known for what she is, rather than simply being the 'plain one' of the sisters.

And I'll say it again for those at the back, it is GLORIOUS viewing. Watch it, and hit me up with what you think, it's all available to view on BBC iPlayer.

Last and absolutely no means whatsoever least, the inimitable Judy Parfitt is nominated for playing Sister Monica Joan in Call The Midwife.

If you still haven't seen season 15 of this incredible show, a) where have you been, and b) look away now because there's spoilers ahead.

Now, it's been eight months since Sister Monica Joan's soul was led away from Nonnatus House by Sister Evangelina no less, and I still can't think about it without crying.

I was hooked by the charm of Call The Midwife from the very first moments of the opening episode, all the way back in 2012, and my love for it has never waned.

It's since become one of my ultimate comfort watches, and Judy Parfitt's perfect portrayal of a kindly nun suffering dementia and memory loss has been one of the greatest performances myself and all viewers have been blessed to witness.

The show won't be the same without her, but how wonderful to see such a fine actress rewarded for the dedication she gave Sister Monica Joan right until the very end.

All 15 seasons and Christmas specials are on BBC iPlayer. If you're watching for the first time, you're in for a treat. If you often go back for a re-watch like me, welcome to the club.

With the shortlist for the best drama performance award now public, another round of voting is open to determine the winners in the ceremony's 15 categories.

It's impossible to pick a favourite from the wonderful actresses above, so I'll be rooting for all of them when the NTAs air on September 8.