Members of Soroptimist International Mansfield and District have been showing their support for women and girls worldwide.

The group backed the international 16 Days of Activism initiative against gender-based violence and at its winter fair in Kirkby, Soroptimists wore orange to support the cause.

Soroptimist International Midland East Region held a minute’s-silence in memory of the 85 women killed in the UK as a result of violence in the past year.

At the winter fair at Kirkby Catholic Social Club, Mansfield and District Soroptimists raised more than £500 towards president Kath Whittingham’s adopted charities for her year in office, which will benefit a local homeless team and women’s refuges.

Before Christmas, members gathered for a Christmas meal at the Rushley, Mansfield, when guests included Soroptimist International Stourbridge members.

During the same week there was a coffee morning with mince pies and home-baked cakes at the home of Nicky Hawley.

More than £250 was raised through raffles prizes and from members joining for a chat and drink for the Soroptimist International President’s appeal.

On Wednesday, 8th March, to mark International Women’s Day, the Soroptimists are holding a Cantonese meal at Springwater Restaurant, Calverton.

On Friday, 24th March, there will be a fundraising fashion show held by Colours at Ravenshead Village Hall.

For details about tickets for the events and further information, contact Soroptimists via the Mansfield and District group’s Facebook page, or email [email protected], or go to https://sigbi.org/mansfield

Anyone wanting to join a group of women supporting other women and girls globally and in the UK should get in touch with Soroptimist International Mansfield and District. It holds events and runs projects that you might like to get involved with.