The Epsom hospital that treated suffragette Emily Davison before she died celebrated the return of an eye clinic with a remembrance service for the women's suffrage martyr last week.
The Emily Davison Unit at the Old Cottage Hospital in Alexandra Road, Epsom, was opened during a ceremony attended by transport secretary Chris Grayling MP, Epsom and Ewell Mayor Councillor George Crawford and veteran broadcaster Stuart Cosgrove on Friday afternoon (November 4).
Mayor of Epsom and Ewell George Crawford cuts the ribbon. Pic credit@ What's on in Epsom
Women’s suffrage martyr Emily Davison was treated at the hospital after throwing herself in front of King George V’s horse during the Epsom Derby on June 4, 1913. She was trying to attach a flag to the king's horse, Anmer.
She died at the hospital four days later due to a fractured skull and internal injuries.
Philippa Bilton, Davison’s first cousin three generations removed, visits schools speaking to students about the women’s suffrage movement of the early 20th century and the importance of voting today.
She attended the dedication of the unit.
Ms Bilton said: “I am proud (of Emily Davison).
“I think it’s fantastic that they are still remembering and putting something back in the community for people with poor eyesight.
“I think Emily would’ve been proud of it.”
Subo Emanuel, GP at the Old Cottage Hospital, said: “We wanted to celebrate the fact that we have the association with Emily Davison – especially because of the movement with women in politics with Theresa May as prime minister, and, possibly, Hilary Clinton as president.”
Pic credit: What's on in Epsom
Staff at the hospital also welcomed back the ICP Community Eye Clinic on Friday.
The clinic had moved to Epsom town centre for just over a year, but was transferred back to Alexandra Road due to patients’ demand.
Ms Emanuel added: “Services are closer to home and the patients will have expert care from specialists from the hospital.
“It will be better for patients.”
The diagnostics unit of the eye clinic is named The Emily Davison Unit in her honour.
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