Pankhurst statue is a vote-winner

HUNDREDS of modern-day suffragettes have gathered to see the unveiling of a statue of Emmeline Pankhurst in her home city.

The figure, in St Peter’s Square, Manchester, was revealed yesterday on the 100th anniversary of the first UK election in which women were able to vote.

Supporters wore green and purple sashes with the slogan “Votes for Women” and chanted “deeds not words” as Mrs Pankhurst’s greatgranddaughter Helen unveiled the first statue of a woman to be built in Manchester since Queen Victoria was unveiled in Piccadilly Gardens in 1901.

Hundreds of schoolchildren waved banners as they marched from The Pankhurst Centre to the statue, where they met with other marchers as Eurythymics song Sisters Are Doin’ it for Themselves was played.

Sculptor Hazel Reeves said: “Emmeline, I’m so sorry your statue has been a long, long time coming – exactly 100 years since you proudly first placed your ballot paper into that box.

“It’s been a huge privilege and a real labour of love.”

She encouraged the crowds to adopt the pose of Mrs Pankhurst, who is depicted standing on a chair to address crowds, and shout “rise up women”.