A HEREFORDSHIRE woman found herself being cyber-stalked and harassed in her bid to fight for women's equality in the county.

Councils have often been viewed as a dull white male middleclass dominated part of our community.

But Yolande Watson was determined to change that when she stood for election to Herefordshire County Council.

After applying for her position just 36 hours before the deadline, a tough first couple of years learning how the system works, and being cyber-stalked, she is one of the women paving the way for equality in a sector dominated by men.

Herefordshire Women's Equality Group found 81 per cent of Herefordshire's 134 parish councils had more male than female councillors, with seven of them having no women at all.

Hereford Times: Herefordshire council's female members. Herefordshire council's female members.

And Independents for Herefordshire Councillor Yolande Watson is calling for more women in Herefordshire to step forward to create change.

"Women are required in politics to represent their needs, wisdom and community," she said

"I think being of service and seeking equality and justice for all is in my blood."

She has received cups and awards since her primary school days for being 'community-minded' and has been community activist for many years.

Being able to help people and making a positive difference to people's lives spurs her on.

"Humans have an array of views and values that politicians need to embrace," she said.

"We need to respect and listen to different points of view to create shared visions and consensus.

"Currently party politics creates division. Our current tribal party-led politics doesn't serve people in the 21st century."

Ms Watson thinks it is important for a woman to be in her position.

"I think it is very important that girls and young women see women in any position of power, whether it be in politics, business, community or a household.

"I have been fortunate to know and meet women in my life who have inspired me."

Her grandmother came from humble beginnings – a kitchen maid in a manor house in East Yorkshire.

"Every fibre in her body and soul shone with selflessness. She enjoyed being of service – helping others without any thoughts of her needs or wants," she said.

Baroness Shirley Williams also inspired her when she came to Hereford in 2015 when she spoke about her values and policies so clearly and with humility.

"I often think of her when I am struggling to express myself," said Ms Watson.

Herefordshire County Council is progressing, she noted, as 41 percent of county councillors are now female.

"It is often ordinary people who are the most extraordinary," said Ms Watson.