Residents at The Willows play iconic women co celebrate International Women's Day

To commemorate and celebrate the countless achievements of women, International Women’s Day events take place each year on March 8 around the world.

Julie Critchmoor, Activities and Wellbeing Co-ordinator at the The Willows, Midgeland Road, Blackpool, said: “Following two weeks of rehearsals, our ladies read out short life stories of the famous iconic women, that I had researched and written.

“Public speaking was new to them and out of their comfort zone.

“The event was an empowering experience and clearly boosted their confidence and self esteem.

“The ladies particularly enjoyed dressing up in costume.”

The residents, aged 83 to 96 years, performed their pageant in front of other residents, families, friends and staff.

Eileen Dootson, 85, said: “I liked dressing up and being a Queen for the afternoon, not everybody gets that chance.”

Eileen’s daughters Julie Jackson and Sylvia Brange said: “What an inspiring tribute performed by the lady residents from The Willows”.

Maria Jackson, 88, “I was nervous because I’ve never done anything like this before.

“I was a little worried about my Dutch accent, but I think I did ok”.

Joan Hodges, 95, said: “ I considered it a great honour to represent such a great lady as Dame Vera Lynn.”