A HOST of VIPs are expected at Northumbria University on Friday to launch a book about the challenges and sacrifices made by a number of women who have achieved success in both their working and personal lives.

Women at Work: Perspectives and Experiences is the first book published by the university's department of external relations and has been edited by Anna Maslin, a visiting professor at Northumbria University's faculty of health, social work and education and the Department of Health's international officer for nursing and midwifery.

It offers thought-provoking profiles of more than 40 women, many of whom have made a global impact through their work.

Contributors include Darcey Bussell, Glenys Kinnock, Dame Lorna Muirhead, Virginia McKenna, Mo Mowlam and Anita Roddick and it covers issues as diverse as the Mandela years, Princess Diana, Chernobyl, Afghanistan, politics, science and ballet.

A number of the contributors will be present at the launch.

The book is being launched on Friday, which has been recognised as International Women's Day for more than 100 years.

According to Professor Maslin, Women at Work "covers relevant issues for women in, or hoping to be in, challenging personal roles and takes inspiration from women who have achieved excellence in their own unique worlds. It is a unique snapshot, sharing the perspectives and experiences of nearly a century of outstanding women."

Professor Maslin has had an outstanding career in cancer care, working particularly in the developing world. She is expecting her fourth child in April.

* The book costs £12.99 and goes on sale on Friday