Timeline of Preston's trailblazing women Mayors down the years

The prestigious role as Preston's first citizen has been carried out with great enthusiasm by She will be following in the footsteps of some notable females who have been the first citizen of Preston since Avice Margaret Pimblett became the first woman elected to the role in November 1933, having led the way for women after being elected to the Town Council in November 1920.

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Mrs Pimblett, born in 1880, was the wife of Dr W. H. Pimblett, honorary physician to Preston Royal Infirmary. After winning four contested elections, representing the Conservative Party, she was in June 1931 elected as the first female Alderman of Preston. Her selection as Mayor was a popular one and a quietly spoken, gracious lady she endeared herself to the Preston public.

Women in politics were rare in those days and it was only after a world war and 25 years that Mary Ann Wignall became the second woman elected Mayor of Preston in May 1958. Labour rejoiced when this former weaver and activist donned the chains of office. A great pioneer for the welfare of women, children and her fellow trade unionists, she had a busy year.

A year later Florrie Hoskins, who had spent the war years as a conductress on the buses, was trusted with the ancient role. A popular councillor for Ribbleton she showed much enthusiasm for the task and in the years that followed was heavily involved in the redevelopment of Preston.

For almost a decade, men dominated the role, until Doris Dewhurst was elected for the honour in 1968. A midwife and district nurse for more than 20 years, the popular Conservative councillor represented Tulketh. She remarked on the pleasure of her appointment and the fights the Suffragettes had endured.