‘It is so good to see you, Gertrude. The sisterhood have waited for your return, and now you are among us, once and for all! The Hartley and District Women’s Social and Political Union rejoices. Hallelujah! our day has come!’

‘I am overwhelmed by your kindness and the warmth of your welcome. I am deeply moved.’ Gertrude Rankin embraced each and every one of her followers as they lined the hallway of number 82, New Station Street, Hartley. Once she had completed this task, the leader of ‘the movement’ walked into the large parlour at the rear of the house where a celebratory spread of sandwiches had been prepared.

Inundated with requests to speak to the assembled group of women, ‘GR’ held up her hands. ‘Sisters, please. Let us first eat toget...

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