Programme
The LALHS meets at the Jubilee Pavilion, Long Ashton Village Hall on the first Thursday of the months of October through to April. We aim to offer a varied and interesting programme of talks presented by local and regional experts. Evenings commence at 7.30pm and have generally ended by 9.30pm with a refreshment break. Guests and new members are very welcome.
Programme of events for 2025
| 9th October | AGM followed by The Origin of ‘Beggar Bush’ - Neil Howlet |
| Have you ever wondered how Beggar Bush Lane got its name? Extensive research by Neil Howlett has uncovered more than 120 ‘Beggar Bushes’ from around the country, including our own on Ashton Hill. Hear some of the stories behind these and learn why these ancient ways were once to be avoided. | |
| 6th November | Shirehampton’s Remount in WW1 – Prof. Richard Coates |
| The Shirehampton Remount Depot was a major WW1 supply base for the war-trained horses needed to replace the great numbers lost on the front. Professor Coates takes full advantage of the work he completed for the 2014 centenary commemoration to paint a vivid picture of the Depot in full operation and then dissolution. | |
| 11th December | The Life and Times of Harry Dolman – Clive Burlton |
| Thanks to his fantastic inventions, draughtsmanship and engineering skills, Harry Dolman OBE rose from humble roots in rural Wiltshire to become a multi-millionaire. His business success and love of football would lead him to Bristol City Football Club where, over 38 years, he served as director, chairman and president. |
Programme of events for 2026
| 8th January | The Somerset Rajahs of Sarawak - John Page |
| The present Malaysian state of Sarawak, on the island of Borneo, was governed by the Brooke family from 1842 until cession to the British Crown in 1946. Popularly known as the "White Rajahs", the Brookes established a dynastic monarchy, ruling their exotic jungle kingdom for 3 generations as benevolent autocrats. Two of the Rajahs have links with Berrow (Burnham-on-Sea) and Clevedon. | |
| 5th February | Brandon Hill – Highlights in History - David Martyn |
| We are all familiar with the iconic Cabot Tower built in 1897-98 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot’s voyage to North America, but how much do we know about the various public gatherings, including protests and celebrations, throughout its history, or its defensive role in the English Civil War. The land was initially opened to the public in 1625 when it was purchased by the Corporation of Bristol, potentially making it the oldest municipal space in the country. | |
| 5th March | A Passion for Public Health and Well-Being: Sir Arthur Elton of Clevedon Court 1818-1883 - Julia Elton |
| Sir Arthur’s philanthropic work transformed Victorian Clevedon and the lives of its inhabitants. He was a conscientious member of the Long Ashton Board of Guardians and a just and careful magistrate. His life story is a remarkable account of practical Christianity and kindness. Julia Elton, his 3x great niece and foremost champion, joins us to share it. | |
| 2nd April | When The Whistle Stops – Tales from the Avon & Somerset Constabulary Archives - Alan Vowles |
| Alan Vowles, the curator of Portishead Police Headquarters Museum, has completed comprehensive research into the rich history of the police service in North Somerset, including wartime policing in Long Ashton. Expect stories of bravery, bereavement, humour, intrigue and love. |
VISITORS WELCOME
Meetings are held in the Jubilee Pavilion at 7.30p.m.
Contact Details
| Peter Clark ~ Chairman |
| Mary Magro ~ Hon.Secretary |
| Bridgett Collett ~ Hon.Treasurer |
| Contact Us |