The inspirational stories from four women were celebrated and shared with guests at a charity dinner marking International Women's Day.

Eastern Daily Press: Women Who Inspire. Picture: R. Holmes, edited by C.RyanWomen Who Inspire. Picture: R. Holmes, edited by C.Ryan (Image: R. Holmes, edited by C.Ryan)

More than 65 people attended the fourth Women Who Inspire event held at Halesworth Golf Club Restaurant on March 8, coinciding with International Women's Day), which celebrates women's achievements throughout history and across the world.

The evening was organised by Cathy Ryan, who is a member of the Rotary Club of Southwold and District, which sponsors the event.

Ms Ryan said: 'It was a fantastic evening, hearing the passion of the fours speakers, who demonstrated how they had had to 'Be Bold for Change' which was International Women' Day theme - the audience were captivated by their stories.'

She added: 'The evening consisted of emotion, applause and admiration and laughter, all for these women who have made changes in their lives and those of others.

'The evening also took time to acknowledge and reflect on the lives of those women who are still unable to be heard.'

This year's Women Who Inspire saw speakers Angela Gorman, Karen Hester, Jan Etherington and Dr Pam Crispin share their stories to make a difference to the plight of women locally, nationally and internationally.

The first speaker was Karen Hester, who told her life story from leaving school, to joining the army and her promotion to Group Operations Director (GOD), for Adnams PLC.

She was followed by Angela Gorman, a nurse, who is now the chief executive of Live for African Mothers - a charity which has saved the lives of thousands of mothers and babies.

Third speaker was Dr Pam Crispin, the first female consultant to fly with the Helicopter Emergency Medical Services team, who spoke of the significant contribution the air ambulance makes to saving lives.

Closing the evening was comedy writer and journalist, Jan Etherington, who performed poems and recalled memories of great women comediennes as well as sharing some of her own poems.

The event raised £600 each for The Pink Ribbon Foundation and Life for African Mothers charities, through ticket sales, which included a two course dinner with wine.