Directory of Previous Talks

Jim Nicholson, a Cumbrian by birth, came to Sheffield to study Glass Technology, married and stayed.  The rest is history and makes a very interesting story of his time at James Chesterman and his detailed knowledge of the measuring tools industry. James Chesterman was born in 1792 and came to Sheffield in 1820 where he … Read more

It was the 11th March 1864 when the Dale Dyke dam burst on a dark and stormy night and the results still remain as the “Worst British Dam Burst Disaster” in history. Originally intended to provide water for the many mills in the Loxley valley, rather than drinking water, it was built at the same … Read more

Gerry Kersey is as entertaining in the flesh as he is on the radio. He was born and brought up at 415 Bell House Road, Shiregreen, Sheffield. He had two older sisters, the elder one, Vi (Violet ) was twenty-one years older than him and was the one he used to confess all his misdeeds … Read more

Kathy Gillibrand gave us a fascinating insight into the Sheffield theatres reminding us what gems we have on our doorstep.  Their refurbishment over the last decade has certainly added to Sheffield’s regeneration and appeal. The theatres offer over 800 performances per year and annual ticket sales exceed £360,000.  Besides excellent productions, we mustn’t forget the … Read more

Along with Rodrigo, a politician refugee from North Uganda,  who now has asylum in the UK, and an ex Buddhist monk called Sraman from  Bangladesh, who is still seeking asylum after 8 years, Robert explained the increasing difficulties of many refugees wanting asylum in the UK. Both of his colleagues told their story and answered … Read more

Most of us – aside from one – had never heard of Smith Clarke but all of us had heard of Alvis and their wonderful cars. Smith Clarke was a naturally clever engineer and he joined the Alvis company from Daimler where he remained until his retirement. During his time at Alvis ,his wife became … Read more