Thursday Morning Talks - September - December 2026 - Multiple Dates

Join us for the autumn series of these seven engaging talks covering a wide range of topics, including local history, cultural heritage, notable figures, and the evolution of our communities. Whether you're curious about the past, passionate about storytelling, or simply enjoy learning something new, these talks offer something for everyone. Delivered by knowledgeable speakers in a friendly and welcoming setting, each talk invites you to explore stories that have shaped our local identity and continue to inspire us today. Thursday 17 September Diary of an Agony Aunt | Speaker: Tessa Simpson Discover the history of the “agony aunt” and how Tessa came to take on the role for the Glasgow Herald in the 1990s. The talk will explore a wide range of challenging dilemmas, with opportunities for audience participation throughout. Thursday 1 October Crown & County: Royal Northamptonshire | Speaker: Kate Wills Highlighting the county’s many royal connections across the centuries, from the Anglo-Saxons through to Charles III, this talk explores Northamptonshire’s place in our national story. By turns sad, comical, and occasionally gory, it brings the past vividly to life. Thursday 15 October Burke & Hare and the Body Snatchers | Speaker: Donald Chiswell The fear of the body snatchers was very real, and extraordinary measures were taken to counter their grisly trade. Why did the medical profession condone the practice? How was it brought to an end, or have they truly disappeared? Thursday 5 November The Glider Pilot Regiment | Speaker: Tony Bray Hear how Britain’s Airborne forces were developed, and gain a vivid insight into what it was like to fly a Horsa glider on 6 June 1944. This talk brings to life one of the most daring and precise glider assaults of the war—the mission to seize the bridge over the Caen Canal, later immortalised as Pegasus Bridge. Thursday 19 November Music, Musicals & Me | Speaker: Frances Coombs Join Frances for an uplifting and heartfelt journey through the world of musical theatre. Blending much-loved songs with personal stories, Frances shares the challenges and triumphs of forging a career on the stage—from her early struggles as a young actress to achieving her dream of performing in London’s West End and beyond. Thursday 3 December Operation Monet | Speaker: Andy Tennet Detective Inspector Tennet is called to investigate an armed burglary in which 88 pieces of art have been stolen. A crucial tip-off leads him to the Isle of Sheppey, where a key discovery draws him into the criminal underworld as he works to recover the artworks and identify those responsible. Thursday 17 December Rhyme nor Reason, 'Tis the Season | Speaker: Alan Tumber Enjoy a morning of fun and festive entertainment, filled with the magic of the season. Sit back and relax as you take in a delightful mix of Christmas-themed songs, poetry, and heart-warming film clips, all thoughtfully brought together to celebrate the spirit of the holidays. The experience is accompanied by live guitar music, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for getting into the festive mood. A series ticket can be purchased online for £24 (+ Eventbrite booking fee) Tickets are also available to purchase direct from the museum either in person or by calling 01604 526322, Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 5pm and Sundays 12-5pm