The broad idea behind the group is for it to be a participative discussion forum on a particular historical topic based around the notion that history is far from being straightforward.  It is wide open to interpretation – and more than a little controversy.   And whilst active participation is welcome it is not in any way obligatory as many members are content to just listen to the to’ing and fro’ing of the discussion – so the forum is ideal for anyone with a general interest in history, opinionated or not.  The session is in two halves, the first being a presentation of the subject in hand - followed by a welcome tea break - and the second half is used to discuss the subject, offer views, opinions and contradictions or just listen to the feedback on the topic.   Nobody is obliged to do anything they don't wish to.  Enjoyment and a bit of fun is the objective !

The subjects are a mixture of both British and Internationally key moments in history ranging from pre-historical times to the 1980’s but we will also look at topics that are of wider historical interest which might help put some context to our own history.  Topics are presented at a fairly general level of detail – this is not an academic delve into the fine detail of historical subjects – but we touch upon interesting, dubious and sometimes controversial elements to, hopefully, excite some audience reaction.

The suggested subject programme for the year ahead is put forward by the group leader and before being confirmed is put to the membership for addition/deletion/change of emphasis, etc.  The confirmed subjects are then made into the scheduled programme.   Any member can recommend a subject and any member can elect to present a particular subject if they wish.  The topic programme for the year ahead is accessed via the link at the top of this message.

The group meets at the Marriott Room in Sandbach library every 1^st and 3^rd Monday of each month between 2.00 pm and 4.00 pm (there maybe some tweaking of dates where Bank Holidays occur) .   The cost per session is £1.20 per person plus a £0.30 per person levy to cover tea/coffee/biscuits, etc. if members wish to pay on a visit-by-visit basis; alternatively the whole year (17 sessions) can be paid up front by PayPal or cash (no cheques please) which would be at the rate of £1.00 per session, ie, £17.00 in total.  Unfortunately, there is no provision for reimbursement for any missed sessions with this method. 

All are welcome.

Mike Beck