ONCE again, I see a much-publicised celebration of women in today’s society (International Women's Day, Daily Echo March 8).

Along with ‘Women in Business’ awards and similar plaudits, there certainly seems to be plenty of interest in ensuring that females are (quite rightly) recognised for overcoming adversity, contributing to the community and other inspirational achievements.

But surely these are worthy qualities in all people, and such a blatantly sexist approach is a complete contradiction of the ‘level playing field’ that women have been striving towards for nearly a century?

Imagine the outcry if such awards were for ‘men only’, but apparently ‘women only’ is somehow acceptable.

Don’t get me wrong; I am 100 per cent in favour of sexual equality and have no problem accepting women as equals.

However, that does mean exactly that – equal, not this Orwellian situation where ‘everyone is equal, but some are more equal than others’.

Perhaps Jo Hooper (Equality and Diversity Co-ordinator for Bournemouth Council) could explain exactly how this policy works, or perhaps point me towards similar exclusive events that are being organised just for men?

NIGEL BRYANT, Haymoor Road, Poole