David Corns

David based his talk on the headlines and front pages of 14 British and American newspapers during the build up and the war years. The radio was in its infancy and major communication with the public was through the printed word. The papers were duty bound to report the facts but also to strive for … Read more

A tale of treason, religious conflict, oppression,  treachery, revenge, torture and brutal killings. The plot failed to assassinate James 1st of  England ( V1 of Scotland ).  The ruling Protestant elite would taint  all English Catholics with treason for centuries to come. Why were the Catholics so bitter and what did they hope the Gunpowder … Read more

Yes, a catchy and intriguing title which became clearer as the presentation developed. Tom retired in 2001 from the Toxicology Laboratories in Manchester providing services to hospitals, the police, forensic science services and pathologists from Crewe to Kendal.   He helped with autopsies and cases where there was a need to detect poisons, examine cases of … Read more

Rosemary gave us a thought provoking insight into the harsh realities of women and children working in coal mines over the centuries. In the 17th and 18th centuries, whole families worked underground – men, women and children, some as young as 6 years old.  Concern for safety was negligible with many of the mines were … Read more

A most interesting talk on the Snake Road ( not Snake Pass as many of us know it).  Whilst using Snake Road as the prime example, Howard gave us a fascinating insight into travel in the 1700’s and 1800’s with packhorses, turnpike roads, coaching inns and tolls. The population of Sheffield was 3500 in 1700 … Read more

Mike Gildersleve gave us  an interesting meander through his early days in London. From the outset, he said it would be provocative.  Indeed, it was as  he developed the theme that London means North London.  Mind you he may be biased as he was born in Hampstead, in the hospital not on the heath.   To … Read more