In our previous post we noted that this event was going to be held annually. We have now started to plan the 2011 event and have what should be an interesting line up of ideas and speakers as well as the possiblity of some murchandise such as t-shirts. We are also looking for sponsors for the event, see our sponsor page for more details.

The Peter Allen Memorial Lectures ran throughout May and were put together In memory of the late Peter Allen who passed away in May 2009, to raise money for the British Heart Foundation and to promote National Local and Community History Month.

The event consisted of four Saturday lectures, some in multiple parts, a Mayor’s reception and a two day exhibition. The whole event has been well received with the lowest ‘official’ attendance being 42 people. It is clear from this event that people not only want to do something to support the lasting memory of Peter, but also a true thirst for the history of Thatcham.

Prior to the main talk there was a Mayor’s reception where family, friend and colleagues of the late Peter Allen gathered to reminisce. Refreshments and food was supplied by St. Mary’s Church. There was in excess of 60 people present on Saturday evening for a talk, presented by Bill Butler and Rev. Tom Moffatt, on the “History of St. Mary’s Church.” Bill talked about the history of St. Mary’s Church starting in around 675AD whilst Tom related local events to what was happening in the wider Church community at the time.

Over 50 people attended the third event of the "Peter Allen Memorial Lectures" on Saturday 15th May 2010. The event consisted of two talks, the first was a talk on the history of Thatcham given by Dr Nick Young, chair of Thatcham Historical Society. The second talk, given by Tony Higgott who is also from Thatcham Historical Society, detailed how anyone who is interested can get started in local history. Nick highlighted the importance of Thatcham noting some of the important finds, a few of which date to at least 10,000BC.

The event held today, 8th May 2010, consisted of four talks and was attended by 50 people. Alf Wheeler presented two short talks, one on “the history of Dunstan House” and the second on “the Wheeler family.” Sue Broughton then followed with a short talk on “the Tull family.” After a short break Stephanie Steevenson, Thatcham Town Mayor (2009 -2010), presented a talk on “how to get started in family history.” All of the talks were thoroughly interesting and everyone left wanting to know more. See pictures of the event in our gallery.