To mark International Women’s Day, we are celebrating 15 inspirational women who were born in towns and communities across Lancashire.
The list includes historic trailblazers such as suffragette Edith Rigby and football pioneer Lily Parr, alongside modern sporting stars including Olympic medallist Holly Bradshaw.
It also highlights well-known names from television and broadcasting such as AJ Odudu, Ranvir Singh and Mary Anne Hobbs, as well as writers, campaigners and community figures whose work continues to inspire today.
Here are 15 women from across Lancashire whose achievements continue to inspire:
1. Edith Rigby
Preston-born suffragette Edith Rigby was a leading campaigner for women’s voting rights in the early 20th century. A member of the Women’s Social and Political Union, she organised protests, rallies and acts of civil disobedience across Lancashire. | Contributed Photo: submit
2. Yrsa Daley-Ward
Poet, writer and model Yrsa Daley-Ward grew up in Chorley. Her internationally acclaimed books, including Bone and The Terrible, blend poetry and memoir to explore identity, family and mental health. | Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images
3. Holly Bradshaw
Preston-born pole vaulter Holly Bradshaw is one of Britain’s most successful track and field athletes. She won bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and has claimed medals at European and World Indoor championships. | Sam Mellish/Team GB
4. Beth Hesmondhalgh
Beth Hesmondhalgh was a cotton spinner in Preston and became an active supporter of the women’s suffrage movement. | Contributed