Influential Welsh women in history

Julia Gillard became the first ever female Prime Minister of Australia in 2010. Credit: PA

As Welsh-born former Australian PM Julia Gillard speaks at the Senedd on women's rights, we take a look at some important female figures in Wales' history.

Here is a list - in no particular order, and by no means exhaustive - of just a few Welsh women and their contributions in history.

1) Julia Gillard herself. Born in Barry to parents from Cwmgwrach in the Neath Valley, Gillard migrated to Australia in 1966 where she grew up and became Prime Minister in 2010.

She has championed women's rights through her career, overcoming gender barriers to become the first Australian Labour leader. Opposition Leader Tony Abbott infamously made a speech in front of signs saying 'Ditch the Witch'.

Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson was awarded an MBE, OBE and then DBE for her contributions to British sport Credit: ITV Wales

2) Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson DBE (Christened Carys Davina) won 11 gold medals for Great Britain in her Paralympic career and also won 13 World Championship medals.

She is considered one of the most accomplished disabled athletes in British history and since retirement has taken up a parliamentary role in the House of Lords.

Megan Lloyd George (left) picture with her father, former PM David Lloyd George, and mother. Credit: PA Images

3) Megan Lloyd George made Welsh history in 1929 when she was elected Wales' first ever female MP. She campaigned for women's rights, the underprivileged, and Welsh issues, opening the first ever Welsh Day debate at Westminster in October 1944.

Dame Shirley Bassey outside the Children's Hospital of Wales. Credit: ITV Wales

4) Dame Shirley Bassey has been one of Wales' most well-known musical exports, with a singing career spanning more than six decades.

The road leading to Noah's Ark Children's Hospital for Wales was recently named after the Goldfinger singer, in honour of her charitable work as patron of the hospital.

5) Betsi Cadwaladr, 1789 - 1860The famous Welsh nurse treated the wounded during the Crimean War and her contributions were recognised when she became the namesake of the North Wales 'Betsi Cadwaladr' Health Board - the largest health organisation in Wales.

6) Lucy Thomas, 1781 - 1847Considered the 'mother of the Welsh steam-coal trade', Lucy Thomas helped establish the market for Welsh coal in London trade.

7) Margaret Haig Mackworth (neé Thomas), 1883 - 1958Margaret was a Welsh peer and active suffragette. She faced barriers to gaining power in the public sphere when she was denied her father's seat in the House of Lords after his death, but continued to fight for women's rights.

These are just a few Welsh women who have made their mark on history, let us know if you can think of more by getting in touch at wales@itv.com