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International Women’s Day talk to celebrate ‘Brilliant Bradford Lasses’

Wednesday, 4 March 2026 12:08

Mrs Norton portrayed by Irene Lofthouse

The talk at Ilkley Manor House will celebrate past pioneers and today’s changemakers.

An engaging new interactive talk, Brilliant Bradford Lasses, will take place this Friday 6 March 2026, 5–6:30pm, marking International Women’s Day by shining a light on extraordinary women and girls connected to Bradford from the 19th century to the present day.

Audience members can expect a lively session that blends history, performance and participation.

The event opens with a fun introductory game before Mrs Norton - portrayed by Irene Lofthouse in full suffragette character - leads the audience through a rich mix of hidden stories, forgotten names and modern-day “Brilliant Bradford Lasses”.

From writers, explorers and sportswomen to nurses, poets, trade unionists and a university chancellor, the talk spotlights women who achieved “firsts” in their field - from the well-known to the overlooked, right up to contemporary figures making change today. The session also invites the audience to nominate their own Brilliant Bradford Lass, creating a shared celebration of women’s achievements across generations.

Tickets for the event are £12.50 available from TicketTailor. Limited tickets may be available on the door, subject to availability.

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