International Women's Day was marked in Radstock last Saturday, 8th March, with an exhibition featuring local women and their achievements. This year's theme was 'inspirational'.
Local historic women featured in the detailed exhibition, including Ada Lovelace (daughter of Lord Byron), Norah Fry, (first female Councillor of Somerset County Council), Sister Leonie Shore (from Timsbury, District Nurse, Midwife and Health Visitor), Nancy Riddick (well-known local politician) and present-day women in the Town who were asked to contribute – Rev. Sue Greatorex, the Rector of St Nicholas Church, Radstock, Sue Hill (Susan Hill School of Dancing), Sarah Westell (Community Campaigner in Haydon and involved with the Big Local Project), Chair of Radstock Town Council, Lesley Mansell, poet and local librarian, Marilyn Francis, author, Janet Tanner, NCT Co-ordinator, Nettie Williams, Police Inspector, Shirley Eden, The Journal's very own Editor, Becky Brooks and many more.
Radstock Methodist Church's Hall was open to visitors who met for tea and cake, provided by women from local company, Coffee and Crumbs, and spoke about what they would like to see in the future, both in the town and internationally. There was also information available about women's rights, the campaign for equal pay and domestic violence.
The Exhibition will continue to be on display for viewing throughout March and will be open whilst the Coffee Bar at the Church is running from Monday – Saturday mornings.
The first International Women's Day event was held in 1911 and is a global day celebrating the economic, political and social achievements of women – past, present and future. In some countries, the day is a national holiday. For more information, visit: http://www.internationalwomensday.com">www.internationalwomensday.com
Radstock also celebrated International Men's Day last November 19th, with a theme of 'Keeping men and boys safe'. The event was attended by local MP, Jacob Rees-Mogg, which featured information and health advice for local men.