More than 600 young women were treated to a second International Women’s Day Festival on the Fylde Coast, with 26 local role models, 80 volunteers from business and Blackpool Sixth Form students.

The festival had five themed areas, supporting the development of female social mobility, social action and learning, each providing interactive workshops and activities delivered by local, regional and national businesses including Cosmetic Chemistry, laser shooting, careers at BAE, climbing walls, special effects make-up, resilience strategies and CSI detective activities. Co-organiser Deborah Terras, director of The Washington Group, who co-organised the event with Community Interest Company, says: ‘In a recent survey, Blackpool was identified as the toughest place for young women to live.

‘The festival celebrated the amazing opportunities for young women on the Fylde Coast, addressing ambition, opportunity and highlighting amazing positive role models, breaking down barriers and unifying gender equality.’