The remains of Shropshire-born Save The Children founder Eglantyne Jebb are to be reburied in a Geneva cemetery which is reserved for those who have made a significant impact on the city.

The Cemetery of Kings currently houses the remains of Protestant reformer John Calvin and Red Cross president Gustave Moynier.

Now, however, Ellesmere-born Eglantyne Jebb is to have her remains relocated to the cemetery from their current home at St George's Cemetery in the same city.

She will be relocated with a private ceremony to be attended by her family on February 7. It represents a significant honour for one of history's most important advocates of children's rights, who is also celebrated in her hometown.

Gwen Hines, chief executive officer of Save the Children UK, said: “The international community will be forever grateful for the pioneering work and commitment of Eglantyne Jebb to transform the lives of millions of children across the globe.

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“Her lifelong dedication to campaign and advocate for children’s rights and end the cycle of poverty is the reason that Save the Children exists today.

“Eglantyne’s memory and contribution lives on – over 100 years later Save the Children is working in over 100 countries to make sure child rights are protected and ensure all children are safe, healthy and learning.

“This posthumous honour granted by the city of Geneva is a fitting tribute for the legacy and impact of one incredible woman in her fight for social justice, and we will continue to honour her life’s work by helping every child get the future they deserve.”

Ms Jebb passed away in Geneva following a stroke in 1928, at the age of 52.

Throughout her life, she was a robust advocate for children's rights. Her journey began after she became aware of the starvation of children due to Allied troops' blockades preventing supplies from reaching Germany and Austria.

In response, she created flyers highlighting the issue and distributed them in Trafalgar Square, leading to her arrest and a £5 fine.

However, her unwavering determination impressed the judge so much that he became the first donor to Save the Children, paying her fine.

He paid her fine, making the very first donation to Save the Children.  

This event marked the launch of the organisation's history, which continues to impact children's lives worldwide.

The Cemetery of Kings pays tribute to Genevan personalities, such as the first modern cartoonist Rodolphe Töppfer, the French comedian François Simon, the Argentinian writer Jorge Luis Borges, the world famous psychologist Jean Piaget, and the daughter of Fyodor Dostoyevsky.