THREE networking groups have come together and put on an event in support of International Women’s Day – with Jackie Weaver making an appearance as a guest speaker.

Sue France’s Creative Connecting in Cheshire, Kirsty James’ Colony Networking and Tricia Peters’ networking organisation put on the inspirational event, raising more than £2,000 for a charity helping survivors of abuse, as well as £400 for Ukraine.

When Hartford resident Sue France invited Jackie Weaver to be a speaker back in April, Jackie suggested she might not still be newsworthy – but the opposite is true as her fame continues to spread.

Since the infamous Handforth Parish Council video went viral, Jackie has even presented on the Brit Awards and appeared as a contestant on Mastermind, while still supporting parish councils.

Jackie said: “What a pleasure it was to be surrounded by such positivity and caring support for women by women.

“It just goes to show what determined women can achieve when they put their collective mind to it.”

Speakers also included Maggie Oliver MBE, Susie Mathis, Emma Preston, Sharon Amesu and Gillian Keegan MP.

Surprise entertainment was provided by Mindy Cowap of Little Budworth, whose group the MProject Movement performed a flash mob dance which included six members of the networking groups present.

Sue added: “We’re over the moon to announce we have raised £2,130 for The Maggie Oliver Foundation which was the charity of the event.

“We also put jars out for loose change for the Ukraine Crisis fund which raised £402.81.”

For more information on Sue France Creative Connecting in Cheshire, visit suefranceccc.com/

For Kirsty James Colony Networking visit colonynetworking.co.uk/

For Tricia Peters, visit triciapetersnetworking.co.uk/