A range of events under the 'Balance Is Better' theme will take place to mark International Women's Day tomorrow (March 8).

A live debate on women's rights and a preview of the proposed Emily Davison statue are among the high profile events taking place in Surrey and South-West London.

International Women's Day (IWD) seeks to highlight women's rights and promote gender equality across the globe.

This year, organisers from the region and around the world are focusing on achieving greater balance between men and women in society, using the slogan #BalanceIsBetter.

The IWD official statement previewing the event said: "A balanced world is a better world. How can you help forge a more gender-balanced world? Celebrate women's achievement. Raise awareness against bias. Take action for equality."

Kingston's Environment Centre (KEC) and Kingston Green Radio, which is celebrating its 12th anniversary this week, will mark the occasion by hosting a live panel discussion.

KEC said: "This is a panel of high profile inspiration women from the Borough who are coming to the Kingston Environment Centre to discuss their careers as well as the barriers facing women today."

The panel will feature: London Mayoral candidate Siobhan Benita, Kingston Council Leader Liz Green, Britafrique Founder and CEO Michelle Akintoye and Executive Headteacher of the Coombe Academy Trust Deborah Walls.

Epsom residents can meanwhile get involved at the Ashley Centre, where the Emily Davison Memorial Project (EDMP) will offer attendees a chance to see the prototype maquette of the proposed Emily Davison statue (pictured).

Epsom and Ewell council's Strategy and Resources Committee voted on January 31 to help fund the project, and suggested that the statue would be erected in Epsom marketplace.

Emily Davison was a militant suffragette who agitated for women's right to vote, and is considered a martyr for women's emancipation by many after she died protesting for universal suffrage at Epsom racecourse in June 1913.

For a full lits of events happening as part of IWD 2019, head to www.internationalwomensday.com/EventSearch