Celebrating March 8 International Women’s Day, we look at Yorkshire female role models who have changed the world of politics, science, sport, art, literature and popular culture.
5. Jane Tomlinson
Her name has become a byword for courage and tenacity. She made headlines across the world by competing in a series of epic challenges including marathons and a 4,200 mile cycle ride across the width of the US, despite suffering from terminal cancer. She raised £1.85m for children’s and cancer charities before her death in 2007.
6. Betty Boothroyd
In 1992, the House of Commons elected a woman to the post of Speaker for the first time in its 700-year history. The woman in question was the formidable Betty Boothroyd. She served eight years before retiring in 2000. She displayed wit and warmth and became renowned for her forthright style when bringing MPs to order. She astonished the Commons the first time she presided over PMQs, when she closed the session by saying, “Right ... time’s up!” It became one of her catchphrases.
7. Beryl Burton
The Leeds cyclist dominated women’s cycle racing in the UK, winning more than 90 domestic championships and seven world titles, and setting numerous national records. She set a women’s record for the 12-hour time-trial which exceeded the men’s record for two years.
8. Jessica Ennis-Hill
She was the poster girl of the 2012 Olympics and her victory in the heptathlon at the London Games was part of the legendary Super Saturday when she, along with Greg Rutherford and Mo Farah, all won gold in the space of just 44 minutes. She retired after the Rio Games as one of Britain’s greatest ever athletes.