My Life in Specialist Steels – Bryan Peters – 4th September 2017

With so many members having been involved directly or indirectly in Sheffield’s industrial scene, there was a palpable frisson of expectation as our Chairman introduced this week’s speaker, Bryan Peters. We were not to be disappointed. Bryan was to take us on a journey through a career spanning fifty-five years and, in so doing, remind … Read more

Heavy Goods Vehicles And Stuff – Peter Jackson – 27th February 2017.

Our Speaker this week, our very own member Peter Jackson, clearly had a spring in his step.  His daughter-in-law, Julia, had just given delivery to a baby boy, Albert Joseph, weighing in at 5lbs 4oz.  But proud Granddad was about to captivate us with a talk about something rather weightier: Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV) weighing up … Read more

Sir Barnes Neville Wallis 1887-1979 – Peter Rix – 1 August 2016.

Think of Barnes Wallis and thoughts go to Dam busting bouncing bombs accompanied by Eric Coates’ splendid 1955 film signature tune.  Our speaker this week, Peter Rix, opened his presentation by reminding us that his subject’s achievements were much wider that those associated with the exploits of 617 Squadron at Mohne and Eder.  Wallis’s portfolio … Read more

Harry Brearley (1871-1948) – Andrew Messer – 27 June 2016

Think of Sheffield and for most, the next thought is stainless steel. This revolutionary material was to transform the production not just cutlery but everything from aero-engine components to hygienic surgical instruments, razor blades, artificial hips and much more. Our speaker this week was writer, historian and comedian, Andy Messer of Dronfield who, using illustrative … Read more