A HOST of events is planned across Bradford to mark International Women's Day.

The official date is Friday, March 8, but a whole programme of events is planned in the days around the official date of the global celebration of women's achievements.

The theme for this year is #BalanceforBetter, focusing on calling for a more gender-balanced world.

Bradford Council leader Susan Hinchcliffe said: "Our programme in Bradford spans two weeks and celebrates some fantastic women from past and present – from Manningham’s pioneering women of the 19th century through to those who fought for women’s rights in the 20th century, to successful modern-day women such as a Paralympic cyclist and others in the worlds of business, sport, the media and beyond.

"Across the Bradford District we have terrific success stories of local women achieving great things. We have rising female employment and a surge in women entrepreneurs contributing to our vibrant culture and growing economy.

"But while we see many remarkable women in our own circles and in the public eye, it’s also a time to remember there are still staggering inequalities in this country and of course around the globe.

"This year’s programme tackles these serious issues while celebrating new opportunities and offering creativity, culture and community. It’s great to see so many hands-on activities this year and I urge you to get involved whatever your age or background.

"This year’s theme of #balanceforbetter calls for a more gender-balanced world. Whether it’s in the workplace, the home or in any other sphere, it’s not just a moral imperative for women to be able to contribute fully and fulfil their potential – it’s a common-sense one. The whole of society will benefit."

Here are just some of the events featured in the programme: On March 4, the 2019 flag for International Women's Day will be raised by the Lord Mayor in Centenary Square. Before the official flag raising, people will be able to hear from some inspirational mums who have progressed through their time with Bradford-based voluntary organisation Neesie. This will run from 11.30am until 12.30pm.

There'll also be a chance to hear from former GB cyclist and TV journalist Sally Hurst at Cartwright Hall. The free event will run from 1pm until 2.30pm on March 6. For further information & RSVP email cartwright.hall@bradford.gov.uk.

On International Women's Day itself, March 8, City Hall will host a celebration which will include photography exhibitions, inspirational speakers, a debate in the Council Chamber (3.30pm), stalls and more. This will run between 12 noon and 5pm.

On the same day, there will be a flash mob at The Broadway to mark the celebration. This will be at 12.30pm and people are asked to wear something purple.

Short workshops will be held in the run up March 8, giving people an opportunity to learn the routine. These will be held on March 4 at the Saville Room of City Hall, in the Banqueting Suite on March 5 and 6 and in the main foyer of Kala Sangam on March 7.

On March 9, a heritage walk on 'Bradford's Pioneering Women' will run. Starting at 10.30am, the two-hour circular walk around Manningham will tell the stories of some of the inspirational women associated with that area in the nineteenth century.

It will cost £5 for adults, £3 for accompanied children under 16. Please book in advance. Email helensheritagewalksntalks@hotmail.co.uk or phone 01274 494119.

And on March 10, the talk ‘British Scandal’ or ‘British Institution’: Wife-selling in Victorian Bradford and Yorkshire’ will run at the Industrial Museum.

It is a free event, but donations are welcome. It will take place between 1pm and 2.15pm. Reserve a space by calling 01274 435900.

For the full programme, visit www.bradford.gov.uk/media/5179/bradford-iwd-programme-2019.pdf