SUFFRAGETTES expert Diane Atkinson will be among the guest speakers at this year's Wimborne History Festival.

Diane, a historian who has written a number of books, is an acknowledged expert in the field.

In the centenary year of women gaining the vote, Wimborne History Festival is marking the milestone date with a series of talks and lectures exploring the Suffrage movements and social change.

Diane will be speaking about her book, 'Rise UP, Women! The Remarkable Lives of the Suffragettes'.

An event spokesman explained: "Professor Karen Hunt will also be speaking on the Suffrage movement, examining it from a Dorset perspective.

"Guest speakers will also be taking a look at the influence and role of the Women’s Institute, and on wider social change."

Visit wimbornehistoryfestival.org.uk for tickets and further details.

Tickets for the festival, scheduled for the Allendale Centre, Wimborne, on Sunday, July 22, can also be purchased at East Dorset Heritage Trust.