The Mayor of Abingdon will take part in an event screening the 1940's film Gaslight for International Women's Day.

Aimed at raising domestic abuse awareness, Mayor Gwyneth Lewis OBE is organising the free event on Friday, March 8, at the Abbey Cinema, starting at 5.30pm.

An array of speakers featuring before an open session will precede the film screening at 7.30pm.

Councillor Gwyneth Lewis said: "I am looking forward to this opportunity to raise awareness in Abingdon and, with the current service providers, to jointly discuss methods of education and improving support for victims and survivors.

"I am pleased to be helped by the charity Reducing the Risk, who share my vision for Abingdon to become a beacon town of best practice and collaborative intersectoral working for the benefit of all."

Gaslight, a classic featuring Ingrid Bergman, vividly portrays the menacing effects of coercive control, a form of domestic abuse.

The film's title is believed to originate the term 'gaslighting'.

Mayor Lewis is also a national clinical director for maternity services and women's health and an influential international women's health consultant at WHO.

She has previously written and publicly spoke about improving the physical, mental and social services for those who are vulnerable, excluded, hidden or have no voice, as well as all supporting children affected by violence in their home.

Attendees must reserve their free tickets in advance from the Abbey Cinema box office.