In November 1909, Theresa Garnett became nationally famous for confronting Winston Churchill at Temple Meads Station because he opposed votes for women.

Dressed in a 'merry widow' hat, and while surrounded by detectives, she lashed out at him with a horsewhip, saying "Take that in the name of the insulted women of England!"

The Daily Western Press reported, "The assault on Mr Churchill created a considerable sensation, not only in Bristol, but also through the country." The London evening papers thundered "Winston Churchill flogged in Bristol". The New York Herald of November 14, 1909 even featured an article with the heading "Mr Winston S Churchill Lashed by Suffragettes".

Interestingly, although all the newspapers of the time feature similar accounts (and even Votes for Women in November 1909 mentions that she struck him several times) Garnett herself was later adamant she had not touched him.

Following the incident Churchill was subjected to severe heckling upon rising to speak at the Colston Hall. Bouncers were posted outside to prevent women entering, and a man was ejected for asking why the Liberal Government didn't give votes to women. Another man who said, "They have tortured female political offenders during the past 6 months - why doesn't the Liberal Government put its principles into practice?" was beaten by stewards causing a great disturbance with chairs sent flying in all directions.

Theresa Garnett herself was charged with disturbing the peace and sentenced to one month's imprisonment in Horfield Gaol.