A Suffolk TV star has spoken of how her mother inspires her to be a strong woman at an event marking International Women’s Day.

Fay Greaves, who was on the first series of the hit show The Traitors, said “it’s time for women to be leaders in their own rights” at the InspireInclusion event at the Milsoms Kesgrave Hall Hotel on Wednesday.

Ipswich Star: The event brought together women from across Suffolk on Wednesday.The event brought together women from across Suffolk on Wednesday. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

The Faithful grew up in Ipswich and now lives near Bury St Edmunds, and worked as head of school welfare until her foray into TV.

She described her time on the show as "one of the best experiences" of her life, making it all the way to episode 10 before she was “murdered” by the remaining Traitors.

Ms Greaves said: “I was invited to come along to the event and what an opportunity to be involved with.

“As a local girl from the area, being able to be here today is fantastic. I am looking forward to listening to other remarkable women.

Ipswich Star: Fay Greaves at the International Women's Day event at Milsoms.Fay Greaves at the International Women's Day event at Milsoms. (Image: Charlotte Bond)

“Strong women inspire me. I was brought up by my mum, who is a strong person. She had some health issues when I was growing up and it did not stop her achieving what she could for us.

“I am a great believer that everybody is equal, and opportunities stare us in the face every day and it is up to us to do what we want with them.

Ipswich Star: The event brought together women from across Suffolk on Wednesday.The event brought together women from across Suffolk on Wednesday. (Image: Charlotte Bond)

“We are in a time now where women are more confident and getting more recognition for what they do.

"We have some really strong female leaders such as England team manager Sarina Wiegman, Chelsea manager Emma Hayes, and Alex Scott on Football Focus.

"It’s time for women to be leaders in their own rights."

Fay, who is an ex-national league basketball player and has been involved with coaching at a high level, added that she loves living in the county: "I just love the landscape, and we have some beautiful coastlines."

Further coverage of International Women's Day will be in the Ipswich Star and East Anglian Daily Times tomorrow.