Why has the world forgotten about Lady Henry Somerset? She was an amazing woman, so ahead of her time. An orator, artist, journalist, writer and social pioneer, she led the Temperance Movement in the late 19th century, advocating curbs on the liquor trade to make it less easy for people to succumb to alcohol abuse. Although she signed the total abstinence pledge herself, and encouraged her tenants and staff to do the same, she actually did not expect or demand that alcohol be banned.

As the dabate rages about whether the 24 hour drinking laws should be repealed, it is worth studying the words of Lady Henry – they are so relevant today.

Read all about her work in my new book, A Talent for Humanity – the life and work ofLady Henry Somerset, available through Amazon.