The Queen and Jessica Ennis have been named as Britain's most inspirational women. A poll conducted by Oxfam's Get Together fundraising campaign, to mark International Women's Day saw more than two fifths of British women say they were inspired by Olympic gold medalist Jessica and Her Majesty the Queen. Earlier in the week the Queen topped BBC Women's Hour's Power List, naming her the country's most powerful woman. The Queen's position in both polls won't come as a surprise to anyone, she has just marked 61 years on the throne and is at the height of her monarchical powers.
While Jessica and The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton missed out on positions in the Power List they both ranked highly in Oxfam's poll. Kate came in at seventh position, with 25% of women identifying her as inspiring, behind Oscar-winner Dame Helen Mirren, Harry Potter author J. K. Rowling, Absolutely Fabulous actress Joanna Lumley and Paralympic swimmer Ellie Simmonds. The 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games success earned both athletes Jessica and Ellie their positions, but also saw presenter Clare Balding take eight place in the poll. Clare, a journalist and retired jockey, received 23% of the vote as did singing sensation Adele, who won her ninth Grammy Award last Sunday.
Businesswoman and Apprentice judge Karren Brady and musician Annie Lennox completed the list of ten women from a variety of professions. "It is interesting to see that British women are inspired by more than just influence" said Samantha Scott, Get Together fundraising manager for Oxfam. "Although there are some parallels with the individuals the women’s house panel voted for, it is hugely positive to see other women such as Jessica Ennis so highly rate, showing how strongly women value personal dedication and achievement."
The list is designed to inspire people to raise money for Oxfam's campaign. Samantha added "Oxfam's Get Together is all about celebrating inspiring women from all walks of life around International Women's Day by doing something you enjoy with friends and family to raise money for Oxfam's work with women living in poverty worldwide. "Whether it's an Ennis-inspired sports quiz in the local pub or a right royal knees up at home, we hope th UK will be marking the occasion in style. "This year International Women's Day takes place on March 8.
