INSPIRING more girls to become engineers and scientists was the aim of the fourth Winsford Women's Day.

Motherwell Cheshire hosted the event to mark International Women’s Day, a global call to action for accelerating gender parity.

The theme for the celebration was Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) and Balance for Better to promote equality of the sexes in the workplace.

Kate Blakemore, founder of the women's day events, said: “The day was a great success. It was great to see the local community coming together and listening to the speakers and stall holders and finding out more about the opportunities that could be available to them.”

The event was held at Warrington & Vale Royal College’s Winsford campus.

Warrington & Vale Royal College’s curriculum director for STEM, Cath Brierley, said: “We were delighted to support this year’s Winsford Women’s Day, celebrating Women in STEM.

"We believe the promotion of STEM subjects to young women is vital to encourage future female engineers and scientists. The day was a wonderful celebration of all things STEM and we were honoured to welcome the local community to enjoy the event as our guests.”

The high sheriff of Cheshire Alexis Redmond MBE opened the action-packed event which included talks by several motivational speakers.

Author Kate Cousens spoke about the challenges facing women in the workplace every day featured in her book 'Ladder Climbing in Heels'.

PC Jo Green described various job opportunities for women in the police force.

Dr Sally Freeman from the University of Manchester talked about career opportunities for girls in science, technology, engineering and meths.

Local charities and women showcased their businesses and handmade crafts.

Kate added: “We had record numbers of people through the door. It was great to see the local community together and working towards inspiring and empowering each other."

For more information and to listen to the talks visit motherwellcheshirecio.com.