Woodbridge celebrates Suffolk women on International Women's Day

Dorothy Hodgkins was one of two girls allowed to study chemistry at Sir John Leman Grammar School in Beccles

A town is hosting a trail celebrating eminent Suffolk women to mark International Women's Day.

The names and portraits of 31 historical figures have been displayed across storefronts in Woodbridge, along with details of their achievements.

The late county councillor Caroline Page compiled the list.

Organiser Ruth Leach described the women as "exceptional" and said she wanted to share these people to "celebrate what they achieved".

Shop windows across the town are showcasing historical Suffolk women, including photographs and a biography of their achievements

Ms Leach, who is a Liberal Democrat county councillor for the town, said her Lib Dem colleague Ms Page compiled the list using an internet search for "famous Suffolk women", with only 30 results.

"We're hoping to change that next year and include contemporary women," she continued.

International Women's Day is an annual event to commemorate women's achievements, raise awareness about discrimination and take action to drive gender equality.

The women being celebrated in Woodbridge include Jean Gardner, who was responsible for purchasing and restoring Woodbridge's Tide Mill, Aldeburgh-born Millicent Fawcett, who led Britain's largest women's rights association, and Dorothy Hodgkin, who attended a grammar school in Beccles and won the 1964 Nobel Prize in Chemistry - the only Nobel-winning British woman scientist.

Stag and Hare Butchers is showcasing Suffolk-born Mary Beale, a successful portrait painter

"When Caroline passed away... she asked me to keep the names alive," said Ms Leach.

"There are 16 women that were burned as witches, which is a terrible thing, and unless we think about those women and say their names, they're not remembered."

Eric Reeve, manager at the Stag and Hare Butchers, said: "We are supporting this because it is about equality, inclusivity and recognising achievements that weren't necessarily recognised in their time."

To help commemorate the day, the suffragette flag at Whisstocks Place is being raised at noon and a selection of Ms Page's poetry will be read at the Bull Hotel.