COUNCIL bosses are asking businesses to get involved with International Women's Day.

The year's event will mark 100 years since women were granted the right to vote for the first time in this country.

Locally there will be a focus on the achievements of women in Blackburn and Darwen, including political activists.

Councillor Maureen Bateson is spearheading efforts to raise the profile of the event which will take place on March 8.

She said: "You can play a part by thinking of how your business, service, group or organisation can mark the day.

"It’s really important we remember or past too and women’s suffrage was such a significant milestone.

"Hopefully we can inspire other women in the community to make their mark, perhaps by getting involved with an important cause or to seek support to overcome any barriers they might face in achieving their potential in life."

Visit theshuttle.org.uk/international-womens-day-form to get involved.