THREE women in Bridgwater have been sharing their experiences of the pandemic in support of International Women’s Day (March 8).

Kate Gardiner, from Purple Spoon Events, set up the Purple Spoon Cafe in the YMCA building in Bridgwater in 2017.

She started a gofundme page when lockdown hit and managed to cook around 8,000 meals for the community.

“When things return to the new normal, of course we need to resume the commercial side of running the business to pay salaries,” said Kate.

“But we will also be more committed than ever to supporting those in need.

“If lockdown has taught me anything, it’s how important it is to reach out to your local community.”

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: Vicky Owens and her sister

Vicky Owens is director of S Roberts & Son, a company involved with skip hire, waste recycling, licensed asbestos removal, demolition and Tipper Lorry hire.

“When I first started here in 1993, I recall being very daunted,” said Vicky.

“But in reality, it was ultimately beneficial, as because of my female status, I stood out from the crowd and got noticed.

“I never felt the need to act like a man. I was determined to forge my own path. Women can bring just as much to the table, but often from a different perspective. They tend to be more creative, collaborative and, most importantly, communicative.

“We’re also a bit softer around the edges and understanding, particularly when it comes to working mothers and we have quite a few of these in our employ.”

When lockdown hit, the company had a huge bank of disposable overalls and face masks and so Vicky and her team helped to deliver large batches to Sedgemoor District Council and the local hospital.

Julia Minchin is founder and director of Hippychick, a baby and toddler business.

She says women who have survived the first stages of parenthood isolation are “the true unsung heroes”.

As well as getting out deliveries with a reduced workforce when lockdown hit, Julia and her team donated hundreds of toys and essentials to The Salvation Army and Childrens’ Social Care in Somerset.

They also delivered educational toys to primary schools and nurseries across Bridgwater, as well as on Random Acts of Kindness Day, each of the team did something special for a friend or a neighbour.

“It’s been a tough time but fortunately we’ve managed to ride the storm,” said Julia.

“It’s also been a huge learning curve. The main thing it has taught me is that life is entirely unpredictable, and you never know what’s round the corner.

"You can never be complacent. You have to be agile, adaptable, and flexible, ready to adapt your business to a changing environment."