A number of prominent women have links with Worthing, and here are just some of them.
International Women’s Day (IWD) has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by more than a million people. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere – it is not country, group or organisation-specific.
The theme for 2023 is #EmbraceEquity. The IWD website says: “For International Women's Day and beyond, let's all fully #EmbraceEquity. Equity isn't just a nice-to-have, it's a must-have. A focus on gender equity needs to be part of every society's DNA. And it's critical to understand the difference between equity and equality.
“The aim of the IWD 2023 #EmbraceEquity campaign theme is to get the world talking about why equal opportunities aren't enough. People start from different places, so true inclusion and belonging require equitable action. Read more about this here. All IWD activity is valid, that's what makes IWD inclusive. So give equity a huge embrace.”
9. Francesca Hayward
Ballet dancer Francesca Hayward, winner of 2010 Young British Dancer of the Year, grew up in Goring. She trained at Le Serve School of Dance in Tarring and had her first role in a recital at the Pavilion Theatre. She went on to become principal dancer with the Royal Ballet and starred in the film Cats. Photo: Yuichi Yamazaki/Getty Images
10. Britt Allcroft
Writer, director and producer Britt Allcroft, best known for creating Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends, was born in Worthing and grew up in the town. She changed her name from Hilary to Britt at the age of 16. She is seen here with actor Peter Fonda at the premiere of the movie Thomas and The Magic Railroad in July, 2000, in Los Angeles. Photo: Online USA/Getty Images
11. Liz Smith
Bafta-winning actress Liz Smith, famous for her roles in The Royle Family and The Vicar of Dibley, was living in a care home in Worthing when she died on Christmas Eve, 2016, at the age of 95. She had announced her retirement in 2009 following a series of strokes and later moved to Worthing. Photo: Stephen Goodger/SussexWorld