The decision to commemorate Millicent Fawcett in Parliament Square produced a number of letters (17 April). It is heartening to see women from history recognised and to hear of campaigns up and running across the country.

Les Summers questioned why Ellen Wilkinson has not been chosen or given prominence. I am running the Eighth Plinth campaign in Middlesbrough to secure the first female statue in the town. Following a public vote, it will be of Ellen Wilkinson, who was MP for Middlesbrough East 1924-31, the first female education secretary and a huge advocate for women’s rights.

Work is under way, and a female sculptor will be commissioned to produce the statue.

Emma Chesworth

Stockton, Teesside

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