An inspirational suffrage campaigner from Rayne is being celebrated to mark 100 years since some women were given the right to vote.

Eliza Vaughan, of Rayne, was an active member of the National Union for Women's Suffrage Societies (NUWSS) for many years.

Unlike the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU), the NUWSS believed in sticking to peaceful campaigning activities but were just as important in the fight for votes for women.

In July 1913 Eliza took part in a march organised by her group which brought together campaigners from across the country, ending with a rally in London.

Telling her account of the march, in a piece titled Humours of the Road, Eliza describes it as a pilgrimage "journeying to a shrine, dedicated to justice and right".

Her story has been revealed as part of the centenary thanks to Essex Record Office, which has been researching the stories of many suffrage campaigners.

Essex County Council's cultural development team is also starting an 18 month project titled Snapping the Stiletto.

The project will explore how Essex women's lives have changed since 1918 in partnership with 11 museums from around the county, aiming to break the stereotype of an Essex female.

Susan Barker, councillor responsible for culture, communities and customers, said: “Essex women have played a vital role throughout history, and this has only grown more significantly over the last century.

"I am delighted to celebrate the important history of the role of women in Essex in this landmark year.

"I am looking forward to hearing about the inspirational stories of women in Essex uncovered by the Essex Record Office and the Snapping the Stiletto project.”

If you are interested in getting involved in the project, email pippa.smith@essex.gov.uk.