In a landmark project, plaques honouring the names of six trailblazing women from the city’s past were unveiled in the prestigious council chamber of Leeds Civic Hall.
Taking their rightful place alongside the names of men who already feature, they have become the very first women to be permanently added to the chamber walls since the building opened in 1933.
The project is aimed at recognising the extraordinary accomplishments of women in Leeds and the unique contribution they have made to the city’s story.
Their names were chosen after a public consultation and confirmed by members of the council’s executive board.
When Leeds Civic Hall was built in 1933, men who had a close association with Leeds or who contributed in a significant way to the history of the city saw their names added to the walls of the council chamber.
Check out our gallery of pictures below showing the opening ceremony and stories of the six women whose lives have inspired many.
13. Beryl Burton OBE
Beryl Burton OBE was honoured in 2014 with the Freedom of the City. The racing cyclist dominated women's cycle racing in the UK, winning more than 90 domestic championships and seven world titles, and setting numerous national records. She set a women's record for the 12-hour time-trial which exceeded the men's record for two years. | YPN Photo: YPN
14. Gertrude Paul
Gertrude Paul was a founding member of the Leeds West Indian Carnival and the first black head teacher in Leeds. | Tony Johnson
15. Gertrude Paul
She also founded the Leeds International Women’s Group, the Afro Asian Organisation and the United Caribbean Association. Credit: Family photo. | Leeds City Council Photo: Gertrude Paul
16. Inspirational
Heather Paul, daughter of Gertrude Paul, said: “Today is a great day honouring all the women, and a celebration of everyone who worked with Gertrude Paul and those whom she supported. She was a woman who believed in collective action, galvanising young and old to promote equity not only in education but in all public services." | Tony Johnson