Jo Rust highlights remarkable women in West Norfolk civic roles. She honored past leaders and current leaders.
A Gaywood group honors Margery Kempe, helping locals explore creativity. Kempe’s book is considered the first English autobiography. She was born in 1373 and was a mystic who did many things. She raised 14 kids and talked with God.
She traveled and wrote “The Book of Margery Kempe.” Fanny Burney was born in Lynn in 1752. She wrote novels, plays, and diaries. Her long career earned her respect, making her a foremost UK literary author.
Ada Neale (Coxon) was born in 1862 and moved to Lynn from Emneth. She actively participated in town civic life. Ada led two Unionist groups and also served as Vice Chair for the Men’s group! Ada was Lynn’s first female councillor. She then became Lynn’s first female mayor in 1925.
Women got full voting rights only in 1928. We must note the importance of her work. Ada also became the town’s first female Magistrate. She received an OBE in 1929. The award recognized her service to the public and politics.
Ada became a barrister at age 70, only ten years after women could join. Since Ada, 14 more women served as mayor. Women hold other key leadership roles now. Kate Blakemore is the Borough Council Chief Executive.
Michelle Drewery is Section 151 Officer, and Alexa Baker serves as Chief Monitoring Officer. These leaders guide the council through changes. Local Government Reorganisation takes place, and they also face financial challenges. Alice Webb leads the local hospital.
Sonia Humphreys leads the police force, and Leonie Boyd commands the RAF station. Dr. Jane Steen is Bishop of Lynn. Gill Rejzi chairs the College of West Anglia governors. The Council made school materials about local history.
It encourages kids to learn of local women. Recognize current leaders and those before. Value all their efforts to inspire others.