Rebecca Pow and local women mark centenary of Representation of the People Act

Ms Pow praised those who fought for female suffrage and pledge to fight for "an even more equal society".

She is supporting a year-long programme of events organised by the UK Parliament to mark centenary of the 1918 Representation of the People Act, which gave all men and some women the vote for the first time.

The Vote 100 programme includes a range of events and activities commemorating the people who fought to achieve electoral equality.

The Representation of the People Act, which gained Royal assent on February 6, 1918, extended the right to vote to all men over 21 and the first women.

Schools and community groups in Taunton Deane are encouraged to get involved in debating and celebrating the landmark anniversary in our democracy.

Ms Pow said: "The Representation of the People Act 1918 was a vital step towards the rights women have today, and the centenary of the act is an incredibly important opportunity for us to reflect on how far we have come, thanks to the extreme bravery and sacrifice of the women who fought – and in some cases died – for equality.

"Whether it’s chatting about the issues over a cup of tea, or engaging with one of the many exciting events as part of this year’s UK Parliament Week, there are countless opportunities for schools and community groups across Taunton Deane to get involved in this key anniversary.

"We all know that there is still more to do, and I look forward to working with people across Taunton Deane to ensure we create an even more equal society."

*The main points of the act saw all men over 21 getting the vote; men who had turned 19 while serving in the First World War allowed to vote even if they were under 21; women over 30 given the vote as long as they were a member of or married to a member of the Local Government Register, a property owner, or a graduate.

All polls were to be held on a specified date rather than over several days in different constituencies as previously.