The Velvet Glove

Nurse Edith Cavell tends to the wounded of both sides in Brussels in the First World War, and helps Belgian and Allied fugitives.

Palaeontologist Marie Stopes faces great opposition in her advocacy of birth control.

The spiritual journey of Mary Baker Eddy, founder of the Christian Science movement.

Quaker Elizabeth Fry sets out to improve the shocking conditions in the nation's prisons.

Already known for her outspoken atheist and freethinking opinions, Annie Besant becomes increasingly interested in Eastern culture and teachings, to the consternation of all around her.

To rid South London of violence, vice and alcohol, Emma Cons decides to begin with the notorious Royal Victoria Music Hall, or 'Old Vic'. Her tough-minded niece, Lilian Baylis, creates the legendary theatre company and performance space.