BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//ESU - ECPv6.9.0//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:ESU X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.esu.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for ESU REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Europe/London BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20220327T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20221030T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20230326T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20231029T010000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230626T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230626T210000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20230425T150402Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230425T153031Z UID:8048-1687806000-1687813200@www.esu.org SUMMARY:London Branch: Dartmouth House Chess Club DESCRIPTION:The London Branch would like to welcome ESU members and guests of all ages and abilities to the inaugural Dartmouth House Chess Club. \nYou do not need a Dartmouth House membership or a day pass to attend this free\, drop-in event\, but please register your interest to reserve your spot. \nChess sets are available\, but do bring your own if you prefer. We look forward to sharing a game of chess with you in the comfort of the Revelstoke Room at Dartmouth House. The bar will be open to purchase drinks\, and light meals and snacks will be available. \nThis event will take place from 7-9pm on Monday\, 26 June 2023. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/london-branch-dartmouth-house-chess-club/ LOCATION:The English-Speaking Union\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social,ESU Young People ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Chess-club.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230626T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230626T200000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20230215T172442Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230626T100310Z UID:7806-1687802400-1687809600@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Violin Concert with Emmanuel Bach at Dartmouth House DESCRIPTION:Join us in the beautiful surroundings of Dartmouth House for an evening of music with award-winning violinist Emmanuel Bach \nESU Music Scholar and Winner of the 2018 Royal Overseas League String Competition\, Emmanuel Bach is fast gaining recognition in the UK and abroad and has performed with the legendary Anne-Sophie Mutter and Maxim Vengerov. \nDuring this performance for the ESU at Dartmouth House\, Emmanuel will perform Beethoven’s Sonata No.1 in D\, Grieg’s Sonata No.2 in G\, and Sibelius’ Danses Champêtres Op.106. \nThe Members’ Bar at Dartmouth House will be open prior to the performance\, which will commence at 6.00pm sharp. \nAbout the artist \nEmmanuel Bach has performed as a soloist and chamber musician at venues such as Wigmore Hall\, St George’s Bristol\, St Martin-in-the Fields\, St James’s Piccadilly and Queen Elizabeth Hall. Emmanuel has played concertos including Brahms\, Mendelssohn\, Paganini No.1 and Tchaikovsky. Alongside solo and chamber playing\, he has played on orchestral schemes with the BBC and London Symphony Orchestras. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/violin-concert-with-emmanuel-bach-at-dartmouth-house/ LOCATION:The English-Speaking Union\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Music,ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/EM-241-C-ChrisChristodoulou.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230626T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230626T190000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20230425T152249Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230425T153615Z UID:8051-1687802400-1687806000@www.esu.org SUMMARY:London Branch: Dartmouth House Philosophy Group DESCRIPTION:Join us in the splendid surroundings of Dartmouth House and meet your fellow thinkers for the first Dartmouth House Philosophy Group. \nThis new group is free of charge and open to members of abilities. You will not need to be a Dartmouth House member or to use a day pass to take part. Please reserve your place\, so that we can send you our pre-group ‘food for thought’. \nYou will be welcome to enjoy Grayson’s hospitality as the bar will be open\, and light suppers will be available for purchase. \nFor those who like a challenge\, you might even stay on and join the chess players to round your evening off. \nThis event will take place from 6-7pm on Monday\, 26 June 2023. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/london-branch-dartmouth-house-philosophy-group/ LOCATION:The English-Speaking Union\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/London-Branch-Dartmouth-House-Philosophy-Group.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230622T183000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230622T203000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20230524T135048Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230622T150325Z UID:8182-1687458600-1687465800@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Alan Rhode in conversation with Leena Norms DESCRIPTION:  \nJoin author Alan Rhode in conversation with poet and influencer Leena Norms on June 22\, from 6.30pm-8.30pm. \nFollowing the publication of his debut novel The Eagle and the Cockerel\, the English-Speaking Union has invited the author to their beautiful headquarters in Dartmouth House\, Mayfair. \nAbout the Book \nThe Eagle and the Cockerel is a political story about the fragility of the institutions that make up our modern world.   \nGreat Britain has long-since left the Union\, but tensions between European countries remain and the international balance of power is firmly weighted towards China and the US. Seizing the opportunity for an unexpected comeback\, disgraced former Paris mayor Vincent d’Amont makes an outrageous proposal: France and Germany should unite to create a new superpower: Charlemagny.  \nThe question will be put to the people in an historic vote on ROME\, the ubiquitous social network of Europe. But\, outraged by the progress of events and fearing a new order based on chaos and conflict\, political vlogger Miss Cliché engages in a fierce battle against Vincent and his cronies.  \nCan Miss Cliché discover who is running the all-powerful ROME and reveal the real forces behind Charlemagny? And can she keep her own feelings under control before Charlemagny becomes a reality?  \nThe event will begin at 6:30pm\, but guests are welcome to arrive from 6:00pm. Guests can purchase refreshments at the Dartmouth House bar. The event will end at 8:30pm and there will be copies of ‘The Eagle and the Cockerel’ available for sale. We do hope you can join us.  URL:https://www.esu.org/event/alan-rhode-in-conversation-with-leena-norms/ LOCATION:Dartmouth House\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Event-image-template-for-websiite-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230605T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230605T150000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20230522T102400Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230522T102701Z UID:8174-1685973600-1685977200@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Tour of Dartmouth House DESCRIPTION:From a banker’s ostentatious home to a military hospital\, and now the headquarters of educational charity the English-Speaking Union\, Dartmouth House has had an illustrious and varied history. Join us on a tour of the building and discover its story which has been shaped by those who owned it. \nThe tour will last approximately 45 minutes and will be followed by tea and coffee in the Wedgwood room. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/tour-of-dartmouth-house/ LOCATION:The English-Speaking Union\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Exterior-of-Dartmouth-House-copy-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230523T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230523T213000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20230103T151208Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230103T161401Z UID:7635-1684868400-1684877400@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Ouse Valley Branch: 'The Swarbrick Singers' by Ian Clarke DESCRIPTION:Ian Clarke is an organist and musical director of the acclaimed chamber choir the Swarbrick Singers\, as well as member of the panel of Examiners for the Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music. \nThe choir was formed in 1983 while Ian was the organist of All Saints’ Church\, Northampton. The organ at the church was built by Thomas Swarbrick\, an 18th century builder and the original case is still there — hence the name. They sing music both sacred and secular from all periods of time at all types of events. Ian will share some insights into chamber music and the wonderful  experiences of this choir. \nBooking forms are available on request from Interim Chair\, Ellen Punter\, and must be returned at least seven days prior to the event: ellen.punter@esu.org \nTickets are priced at £15 for members and £18 for non- members. Talk only tickets are £10 for both members and guests. \nTimings: \n7pm arrival – Bar available for drinks \n7.30pm – Speaker begins (one hour including questions) \n8.30pm – Light refreshments \n9.30pm – Event closes \nThese meetings are open to local branch members and their guests\, as well as other members of the ESU. Ouse Valley branch welcomes new members and embraces those who have supported the ESU\, as well as the local branch\, for many years. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/ouse-valley-branch-the-swarbrick-singers-by-ian-clarke/ LOCATION:King’s House\, 245 Ampthill Road\, Bedford\, MK42 9AZ\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ORGANIZER;CN="Ouse Valley Branch":MAILTO:ellen.punter@esu.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230510T101500 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230510T140000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20220407T094009Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230124T155140Z UID:6786-1683713700-1683727200@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Salisbury Branch: ‘The Women of the Raj’ by Brian Freeland DESCRIPTION:‘The Women of the Raj’ by Brian Freeland \nBrian Freeland has written a dozen stage scripts (nine produced so far\, four of them published). Following comments that he didn’t write many good roles for ladies\, he staged a piece about the British women in India during the second half of the Raj: \n“Called Letters from the Hen House\, it was compiled mainly from letters\, diaries and memoirs of the period. Six excellent roles for the ladies and only four men. Elements from that script together with some of the original research material form the basis of this talk. When the Colonial Administrators arrived to take over from the East India Company they were often accompanied by their wives: wives who spoke only English\, who mixed only with other wives\, and who couldn’t even communicate with their household staff. Wives who made great demands on their husbands. As one Indian wrote later ‘I don’t think they realised what a menace they were. If the memsahibs had stayed in Britain there might never have been a Mutiny’.” \nCoffee will be served from 10.15am\, with the main talk beginning at 11am sharp\, and lunch from 12.30pm. \nLunch & Talk ticket price: £22 (Members) & £24 (Guests)\nTalk only ticket price: £10 – FREE for first-time visitors \nCheques payable to ‘English-Speaking Union’ should be sent to:\nESU Luncheon Secretary\, 3 Stonemasons Yard\, Salisbury SP1 2HX\nesusalisbury-eventssec@esu.org \nDirect transfers can be made to:\nBank: Coutts & Co\, 440 Strand\, London WC2R 0QS\nSort Code: 18-00-02\nAccount Name: English-Speaking Union of the Commonwealth\nAccount No: 01817590\nPlease mark the transfer clearly as “SalisLunch” URL:https://www.esu.org/event/salisbury-branch-event-the-women-of-the-raj-by-brian-freeland/ LOCATION:The White Hart Hotel\, 1 St John's Street\, Salisbury\, SP1 2SD CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Brian-Freeland-Sept-22.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Salisbury and Wiltshire branch":MAILTO:esusalisbury-eventssec@esu.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230504T160000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230504T180000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20221215T163557Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230412T131635Z UID:7617-1683216000-1683223200@www.esu.org SUMMARY:ESU Coronation Tea Party at Dartmouth House DESCRIPTION:Join the royal celebrations with our Coronation Tea Party. Enjoy a delicious glass of English sparkling wine alongside a traditional afternoon tea at the beautiful Dartmouth House. Ticket includes a glass of English sparkling wine\, tea & coffee\, a traditional tea of sandwiches\, scones and sweet treats including cakes & patisserie. \nThe guest speaker for this event will be Dr Barry Twigg MBE EdD MEd\, who is a council member of the Constitutional Monarchy Association. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/esu-coronation-tea-party-at-dartmouth-house/ LOCATION:The English-Speaking Union\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Marble-courtyard-and-Mews-House-1.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230425T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230425T213000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20230103T145818Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230103T151126Z UID:7634-1682449200-1682458200@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Ouse Valley Branch: 'The Importance of Physiotherapy in Maintaining Good Health' by Phil Pask DESCRIPTION:Phil Pask is a Chartered Physiotherapist for the Northampton Saints and the England Rugby Team\, one of the world’s best at the rehabilitation and treatment of acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries. His experience of over 25 years\, knowledge base and skill set is far-reaching and includes using motivation and exercise progression\, robust hands-on therapy for treating severe injuries and more long term arthritic issues. Phil will explain how to try to ensure robust health and what to do if the expertise of a physiotherapist is needed. \nBooking forms are available on request from Interim Chair\, Ellen Punter\, and must be returned at least seven days prior to the event: ellen.punter@esu.org \nTickets are priced at £15 for members and £18 for non- members. Talk only tickets are £10 for both members and guests. \nTimings: \n7pm arrival – Bar available for drinks \n7.30pm – Speaker begins (one hour including questions) \n8.30pm – Light refreshments \n9.30pm – Event closes \nThese meetings are open to local branch members and their guests\, as well as other members of the ESU. Ouse Valley branch welcomes new members and embraces those who have supported the ESU\, as well as the local branch\, for many years. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/ouse-valley-branch-the-importance-of-physiotherapy-in-maintaining-good-health-by-phil-pask/ LOCATION:King’s House\, 245 Ampthill Road\, Bedford\, MK42 9AZ\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ORGANIZER;CN="Ouse Valley Branch":MAILTO:ellen.punter@esu.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230419T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230419T140000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20230124T150926Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230417T103115Z UID:7694-1681898400-1681912800@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Salisbury Branch: 'Love\, Passion and Betrayal' by Michael Gould DESCRIPTION:Salisbury Branch is pleased to present a lecture by Michael Gould entitled ‘Love\, Passion and Betrayal’. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain insight into the themes of love\, passion\, and betrayal. Further details about the event can be found below \nCoffee will be served from 10.15am\, with the main talk beginning at 11am sharp\, and lunch from 12.30pm. \nLunch & Talk ticket price: £22 (Members) & £24 (Guests)\nTalk only ticket price: £10 – FREE for first-time visitors \nCheques payable to ‘English-Speaking Union’ should be sent to:\nESU Luncheon Secretary\, 3 Stonemasons Yard\, Salisbury SP1 2HX\nesusalisbury-eventssec@esu.org \nDirect transfers can be made to:\nBank: Coutts & Co\, 440 Strand\, London WC2R 0QS\nSort Code: 18-00-02\nAccount Name: English-Speaking Union of the Commonwealth\nAccount No: 01817590\nPlease mark the transfer clearly as “SalisLunch” URL:https://www.esu.org/event/salisbury-branch-love-passion-and-betrayal-by-michael-gould/ LOCATION:The White Hart Hotel\, 1 St John's Street\, Salisbury\, SP1 2SD CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Salisbury-Branch-Love-Passion-and-Betrayal-by-Michael-Gould.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Salisbury and Wiltshire branch":MAILTO:esusalisbury-eventssec@esu.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230418T173000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230418T210000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20221215T162426Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230330T155204Z UID:7615-1681839000-1681851600@www.esu.org SUMMARY:ESU Quiz Night at Dartmouth House DESCRIPTION:Brush up on your general knowledge and join us at Dartmouth House for our ESU quiz night. An evening of fun and knowledge to see who will be crowned the winning team. \nTen teams of 8 people (max) with a winning team prize – the bar will be open from 6.00pm and quiz will commence at 7.00pm sharp. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/esu-quiz-night-at-dartmouth-house/ LOCATION:The English-Speaking Union\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/ESU-110.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230411T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230411T203000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20230206T105906Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230309T120939Z UID:7746-1681236000-1681245000@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Churchill's Abandoned Prisoners with Rupert Wieloch DESCRIPTION:An evening at Dartmouth House with Rupert Wieloch who will give a talk for the ESU on his book Churchill’s Abandoned Prisoners. \nThe ESU invites you to an evening with Rupert Wieloch who will provide insights into the foundation of the modern Anglo-Russian relationship from his book Churchill’s Abandoned Prisoners. \nDrinks will be served at the bar from 6.00pm and the talk will commence at 6.30pm sharp. \nOne hundred years ago a group of fifteen British soldiers serving with the British Mission to Siberia were captured by the Red Army on Russian Christmas Eve (6th January). They were held in a lice-infested room at Krasnoyarsk for three months\, whilst Prime Minister Lloyd George’s representative signed a prisoner exchange treaty with Lenin’s envoy in Copenhagen. One of the prisoners was a young Captain Brian Horrocks (played by Edward Fox in the film A Bridge Too Far)\, who succumbed to epidemic typhus\, but was saved by his best friend who nursed him through the illness. Another captive\, Francis McCullagh\, was the only western correspondent to interview the Tsar’s assassin. In March\, the prisoners were escorted to Irkutsk where a British train arrived to pick them up\, but the Bolshevik authorities only allowed the women and children to leave and sent the despondent soldiers 3\,500 miles to hateful prisons in Moscow. \nIn his talk at the English-Speaking Union\, Rupert Wieloch will describe how the soldiers maintained morale and coped with their fearsome ordeal and explain what the War Secretary\, Winston Churchill\, did to secure their protracted release and how their incarceration became a ’cause célèbre’ in the House of Commons. Rupert was educated at Winston Churchill’s alma mater and completed a Fellowship in International Relations at Pembroke College\, Cambridge during a 35 year career in the British Army. His extensive research includes a treasure-trove of unpublished document\, as well as archives from Philadelphia\, London\, St Petersburg and Oxford and the testimony from the families of some of the prisoners. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/churchills-abandoned-prisoners-with-rupert-wieloch/ LOCATION:The English-Speaking Union\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Churchill.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230321T120000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230321T143000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20221003T145525Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221011T150609Z UID:7303-1679400000-1679409000@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Ouse Valley Branch: 'The Sharnbrook Mill Theatre: Past and Future' by Douglas and Ginny Pope DESCRIPTION:The Mill Theatre has been ever-present in Douglas and Ginny’s lives for 52 years and both have supported the theatre in a number of ways\, including acting in a number of productions. Douglas has just retired as Chair of Governors of this unique riverside theatre which is run and maintained entirely by volunteers. He will take us through its history from wartime formation and entertaining groups stationed in Poddington\, to its award winning amateur status today. His wife Ginny\, has been wardrobe mistress for many years and will talk about the unique collection housed in the basement. If Health and Safety permits\, a tour may be possible. \nBooking forms are available on request from Interim Chair\, Ellen Punter\, and must be returned at least seven days prior to the event: ellen.punter@esu.org \nTickets for lunch are priced at £25 for members and £28 for non-members. Talk only tickets are £10. \nThese meetings are open to local branch members and their guests\, as well as other members of the ESU. Ouse Valley branch welcomes new members and embraces those who have supported the ESU\, as well as the local branch\, for many years. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/ouse-valley-branch-the-sharnbrook-mill-theatre-past-and-future-by-douglas-and-ginny-pope/ LOCATION:Sharnbrook Mill Theatre\, Sharnbrook Mill Theatre\, 103 Mill Rd\, Sharnbrook\, Bedford\, MK44 1NP\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ORGANIZER;CN="Ouse Valley Branch":MAILTO:ellen.punter@esu.org GEO:52.22239;-0.52744 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Sharnbrook Mill Theatre Sharnbrook Mill Theatre 103 Mill Rd Sharnbrook Bedford MK44 1NP United Kingdom;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=Sharnbrook Mill Theatre\, 103 Mill Rd\, Sharnbrook:geo:-0.52744,52.22239 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230314T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230314T200000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20221215T152758Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230310T230023Z UID:7613-1678816800-1678824000@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Old Versus New World Wine Discovery at Dartmouth House DESCRIPTION:Join experts from Davy’s Wine Merchants as they guide you through a comparative tasting of eight wines from across the globe. This tasting features a specially curated canapé selection to go alongside each wine – book soon to avoid disappointment! \nExperience the elegance and finesse of classic European wines\, from the rolling hills of Burgundy to the sun-drenched vineyards of the Rhone Valley. \nThen\, explore the bold flavours and innovative winemaking techniques of New World wines from regions such as Australia\, New Zealand\, and South Africa. \nDiscover the differences in terroir\, varietals\, and winemaking methods that make each style of wine so distinctive. \nThis event is perfect for wine enthusiasts of all levels who want to deepen their appreciation and knowledge of the world of wine. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/old-versus-new-world-wine-discovery-at-dartmouth-house/ LOCATION:The English-Speaking Union\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/wine-tasting.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230309T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230309T220000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20221122T145643Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230225T100739Z UID:7465-1678388400-1678399200@www.esu.org SUMMARY:ESU Members and Alumni Dinner at the House of Commons DESCRIPTION:Join us in celebration and support of our international exchange programmes with a very special members and alumni dinner at the House of Commons. \nCommencing at 7pm\, you and your guests will be welcomed into the beautiful surrounding of the House of Commons\, greeted with a drinks reception in the strangers room before making your way to the grand members room for dinner during which the keynote speech will be delivered by ESU Alumnus Lord Ian Duncan. \nMembers\, £200; guests\, £250; under 35s\, £125; table for 10\, £2\,200. \nThis event is part of the English-Speaking Union’s programme of celebrating global understanding through dialogue and will support our vital charitable mission of giving young people the speaking and listening skills and cultural understanding they need to thrive. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/esu-members-and-alumni-dinner-at-the-house-of-commons/ LOCATION:House of Commons\, Houses of Parliament\, London\, SW1A 0AA\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screenshot-2022-08-24-155851.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230228T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230228T213000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20230113T145812Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230221T171321Z UID:7673-1677607200-1677619800@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Debate: This House Believes that the COP process will fail DESCRIPTION:Attend in person or online \nIn the aftermath of COP 27 we have the opportunity to consider if the COP process is up to the task of solving the climate crisis or whether it is time to explore alternative approaches. \nJoin us for this final event of the Climate Deep Dialogue to hear activists\, politicians and business leaders debate a motion which affects us all. \nWe are pleased to confirm the speakers for the debate will be: \nProposition: \nCaspar Rawles is the Chief Data Officer at Benchmark Mineral Intelligence\, a London-based leading research and consultancy firm focusing on the lithium ion battery to EV supply chain. At Benchmark\, Caspar leads a team that collects and assesses sensitive market price data on lithium\, graphite\, cobalt\, and nickel for use in industry supply contracts and negotiations. As a result\, Benchmark is most famous for setting the lithium industry’s reference price and is the world’s leading Price Reporting Agency for the global battery supply chain. \nIllana Adamson is a sustainable development thought leader\, board advisor and keynote speaker. She delivers keynotes and chairs panel conversations to push the needle on broader understanding of the risks and opportunities in sustainability. Illana is also the CEO of Be Better Sustainability\, a sustainability consultancy\, and has over 30 years’ experience in strategic luxury marketing. \nAbhijith Subramanian is a finalist in International Relations at the London School of Economics. He is a climate activist and social organiser who formerly ran the North-West of England’s division of Fridays for Future. Abhijith is also an internationally rated debater\, judge and coach. He has served as President of the University of London’s Debating Society\, and vice-president of LSE Debate and the Pan-London Debating Society. He chairs the ESU’s Speech and Debate Committee and works as an ESU Oracy Coach. \nOpposition: \nCaroline Russell is a London Assembly Member and Leader of the Green Group at City Hall. Caroline has sat on the Assembly since 2016 and from 2018–2021 was the Chair of the Environment Committee. Formerly an artist and art college lecturer\, Caroline retrained as a civil engineer and in 2014 was elected as the sole opposition councillor in Islington. Today Caroline sits across four Committees in City Hall. \nKaren McClellan is an experienced fund manager\, investor and board member focusing on worldwide decarbonization. She was the first representative of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development at UNFCC COP negotiations in 2001 and is currently Head of Climate Investment for The Lemos Group (a leading shipping company). She is also a board member of TT International’s Environmental Solutions Fund\, the Panel of Experts for the International Renewable Energy Agency\, and acts as a designated expert for the UK Accelerated Climate Transitions program. \nSumaiya Bangura was selected as the Chair of the London Youth Assembly at 14\, hosting the first Young Londoner’s Question Time at City Hall. She is currently a member of the London Youth Recovery Board\, a Mission Champion for the Mayor’s ‘New Deal for Young People’ and regularly speaks at the London Anchor’s Institutions Network. As a Rise Global Winner\, a highly competitive $1 billion initiative by Schmidt Futures\, she is recognised as one of the ‘world’s most promising teens’. Sumaiya has previously taken part in the ESU’s competitions and sits on the London Branch Speech and Debate Committee. \nThe event will be chaired by Sir Martin Chamberlain\, High Court Judge. Mr Justice Chamberlain was a barrister for 21 years\, latterly a QC specialising in public law\, human rights and public international law. He was appointed as a High Court Judge in 2019 and hears civil and criminal cases in London and elsewhere in England and Wales. \nMartin has degrees from Oxford and a diploma from City University\, London. He was born and went to school in Edinburgh\, where he took part in the ESU’s debating and public speaking competitions. Under the auspices of ESU Scotland\, he was a member of the winning Scottish team in the World Schools Debating Championships in 1990. \nThis Deep Dialogue series – Beyond COP: Is It Time to Change Course? – is held in support of the charitable mission of the English-Speaking Union. Every ticket sold will help the English-Speaking Union in its work to give young people the speaking and listening skills and cultural understanding they need to thrive. \nEvent Timings:\n6:00 – 6:30pm | Arrival\n6:30 – 8:00pm | Debate\n8:00 – 9:30pm | Drinks\n9:30pm | Close \nFurther Information About the Series:\nBeyond COP: Is It Time to Change Course? \nWe are in the midst of an existential climate crisis\, from extreme weather and ecosystem decline to biodiversity loss and crop failure. Climate change is also compounding inequality and has the potential to drive significant unrest if we fail to act now. \nIn the aftermath of COP 27 we have the opportunity to consider: Is our current approach enough to deal with the climate crisis or is it time to change course? \nIn this Climate Deep Dialogue we will explore this question and hear from scientists\, academics\, activists\, politicians and entrepreneurs. We invite you to join us for a provocative\, challenging\, engaging and inspiring series of events\, which will focus on finding the solutions to make radical progress on the climate crisis. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/debate-this-house-believes-that-the-cop-process-will-fail/ LOCATION:The English-Speaking Union\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Debate Club,ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Screenshot-92.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230221T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230221T200000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20230113T144319Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230113T144319Z UID:7670-1677002400-1677009600@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Climate Series Drinks Reception DESCRIPTION:Join us at the bar for informal drinks to bounce ideas around\, disagree agreeably and reflect on the questions posed during the Climate Deep Dialogue so far. Is COP enough or is it time to change course? Where are we with the climate crisis and where are we going to be in the next few decades? Can we innovate our way out of the climate crisis? Will the COP process fail to deliver? \nWe will have experts in the field to engage with and optional activities to produce a snapshot of our thoughts. \nThis Deep Dialogue series – Beyond COP: Is It Time to Change Course? – is held in support of the charitable mission of the English-Speaking Union. Every ticket sold will help the English-Speaking Union in its work to give young people the speaking and listening skills and cultural understanding they need to thrive. \nEvent Timings: \n6:00 – 8:00pm | Drinks (pay bar) \n8:00pm | Close \n  \nFurther Information About the Series \nBeyond COP: Is It Time to Change Course? \nWe are in the midst of an existential climate crisis\, from extreme weather and ecosystem decline to biodiversity loss and crop failure. Climate change is also compounding inequality and has the potential to drive significant unrest if we fail to act now. \nIn the aftermath of COP 27 we have the opportunity to consider: Is our current approach enough to deal with the climate crisis or is it time to change course? \nIn this Climate Deep Dialogue we will explore this question and hear from scientists\, academics\, activists\, politicians and entrepreneurs. We invite you to join us for a provocative\, challenging\, engaging and inspiring series of events\, which will focus on finding the solutions to make radical progress on the climate crisis. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/climate-series-drinks-reception/ LOCATION:The English-Speaking Union\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/ESU-041.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230221T163000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230221T183000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20221215T122135Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230201T181615Z UID:7572-1676997000-1677004200@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Early Evening Pancakes and Champagne at Dartmouth House DESCRIPTION:Sweet or Savoury? Why not one of each? Drop in to Dartmouth House to enjoy a pancake or two served at our interactive pancake station. Choose your own sweet and savoury toppings with a selection of beer\, cider\, wine\, and soft drinks. \nTickets: \nESU Members: £8.00 – 1 pancake and a drink; £12.00 – 2 pancakes and a drink; £15.00 – 2 pancakes and 2 drinks \nGeneral Admission: £10.00 – 1 pancake and a drink; £14.00 – 2 pancakes and a drink; £17.00 – 2 pancakes and 2 drinks URL:https://www.esu.org/event/esupancakes2023/ LOCATION:Dartmouth House\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Pancake_3.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230221T120000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230221T143000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20221003T145129Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221011T150607Z UID:7302-1676980800-1676989800@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Ouse Valley Branch: 'The Kursk Russian Submarine Rescue' by Sir David Russell DESCRIPTION:Sir David was the Chief Executive of the Harpur Trust from 2002 – 2019 and was the first Commanding Officer of HMS Vanguard\, the UK’s lead Trident submarine. \nOn Saturday 21 August 2000\, the Russian nuclear submarine Kursk suffered two enormous explosions and sank to the bottom of the Barents Sea. Miraculously\, 23 sailors survived in the after machinery compartments. The UK offered to help the Russians rescue the sailors and Sir David Russell led the UK rescue forces to the Barents Sea. His talk will explain what happened and why\, in the end\, efforts to rescue the sailors were unsuccessful. \nBooking forms are available on request from Interim Chair\, Ellen Punter\, and must be returned at least seven days prior to the event: ellen.punter@esu.org \nTickets for lunch are priced at £25 for members and £28 for non-members. Talk only tickets are £10. \nThese meetings are open to local branch members and their guests\, as well as other members of the ESU. Ouse Valley branch welcomes new members and embraces those who have supported the ESU\, as well as the local branch\, for many years. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/ouse-valley-branch-the-kursk-russian-submarine-rescue-by-sir-david-russell/ LOCATION:King’s House\, 245 Ampthill Road\, Bedford\, MK42 9AZ\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ORGANIZER;CN="Ouse Valley Branch":MAILTO:ellen.punter@esu.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230216T191500 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230216T210000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20230202T163507Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230207T093914Z UID:7742-1676574900-1676581200@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Bristol branch: Butterfly Photography by Yealand Kalfayan DESCRIPTION:Bristol branch invites you to an event with Yealand Kalfayan\, who will give an illustrated talk on Butterfly Photography.  \nYealand is a retired GP in Bristol\, who has become a very accomplished wildlife photographer\, specialising in flowers and insects\, and is an expert on butterfly behaviour. Yealand will talk about his fascination for butterflies\, their behaviour and how to photograph such active insects.  \nDoors open from 7.15pm\, with Yealand’s talk beginning at 7.45pm sharp.   \nFor further information and tickets\, please contact Nigel Currie\, Chair\, Bristol branch: nigelcurrie29@gmail.com  URL:https://www.esu.org/event/butterfly-photography-by-yealand-kalfayan/ LOCATION:The Apostle Room\, Clifton Catholic Cathedral\, Bristol\, Clifton Catholic Cathedral\, Bristol\, BS8 3BX\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Yealand-Kalfayan-Butterfly-Photography.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230209T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230209T210000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20230113T141021Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230131T103913Z UID:7668-1675965600-1675976400@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Dan Conway\, CEO of the Publishers Association\, In Conversation DESCRIPTION:Dan Conway\, CEO of the Publishers Association will join Alastair Niven OBE LVO in conversation at live at Dartmouth House and online. This discussion will focus on the work of the Publishers Association\, Dan’s own experiences and career\, and the state of the book in the era of digitalisation. \nAlongside his role at the Publishers Association\, Dan is a Board Trustee for World Book Day\, and Non-Executive Director at Publishers’ Licensing Services. Prior to his time at the Publishers Association\, Dan’s career focused on public affairs and politics and he has held senior roles at TalkTalk and within leading communications agencies. \nWe look forward to seeing you at this exciting event\, and recommend that you book your tickets early. \nA cash bar at Dartmouth House will be open from 6pm\, with the talk beginning at 6.30pm. The bar will also be open after the talk from 7.30pm until 8.30pm. \nThis celebratory evening is in support of the ESU’s education programmes. Every ticket sold will help the English-Speaking Union in its work to give young people the speaking and listening skills and cultural understanding they need to thrive. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/dan-conway-ceo-of-the-publishers-association-in-conversation/ LOCATION:The English-Speaking Union\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Dan_Headshot.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230208T183000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230208T200000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20230113T151713Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230123T171721Z UID:7676-1675881000-1675886400@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Piano Recital with Yulia Chaplina DESCRIPTION:The English-Speaking Union welcomes you to an evening of piano music with ESU Music Scholarship alumna Yulia Chaplina \nJoin us at Dartmouth House for a reception followed by a concert by pianist\, Yulia Chaplina. Debuting aged seven with a performance of Bach’s Keyboard Concerto in F minor with the Rostov State Symphony Orchestra\, Ms. Chaplina trained in Rostov and Moscow with Naum Shtarkman and with Klaus Hellwig at the University of the Arts in Berlin. She holds a Masters of Music from the Royal College of Music where\, in 2013\, she was appointed the Mills Williams Junior Fellow. She has performed in recitals extensively across Europe and Asia. Recent orchestral tours and engagements include the Russian Symphony Orchestra\, Berlin Sinfonietta\, Hiroshima Symphony Orchestra and the Moroccan National Orchestra. For further information please visit her website: https://www.yuliachaplina.com/ \nThe programme will include works by Brahms\, Haydn\, Mozart\, Chopin and Debussy. \nArrivals from 6.30pm\, recital begins at 7pm sharp. \nTickets are £20 for members and £30 for members’ guests – price includes a drink on arrival. \nThe English-Speaking Union (ESU) is a charitable membership organisation working to give young people the speaking and listening skills and the cross-cultural understanding they need to thrive. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/piano-recital-with-yulia-chaplina-2/ LOCATION:The English-Speaking Union\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Screenshot-104.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230131T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230131T203000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20221215T164841Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230112T230356Z UID:7622-1675188000-1675197000@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Climate Crisis Roadmap: Where We Are and Where We’re Going DESCRIPTION:The climate crisis poses an existential threat to us all\, yet the complexity of the issues\, the constantly changing environmental policies and the multiple sources of information available to us can make it difficult to grasp the scale and trajectory of the crisis. In this first event of the Climate Deep Dialogue you will hear a lecture from a leading expert in the field of climate science and leave with a clear roadmap of where we are in the climate crisis and possible future pathways. \nThe keynote speaker for this lecture will be Mark Maslin\, a Professor of Earth System Science at University College London and Natural History Museum of Denmark. He is a leading scientist with an expertise in past global and regional climatic change and humanity’s impact on our planet. Maslin has published over 190 papers and regularly comments on international and national climate change policies. He has written over 70 popular articles in the New Scientist\, The Times\, and Guardian\, among others\, and often appears on television and radio. His recent public talks include talks at Twitter\, Google\, the Royal Geographical Society\, Tate Modern\, UNFCCC COP\, the WTO and the Universities of Oxford\, Cambridge\, and Harvard. Maslin has written 10 popular books\, including “Climate Change: A Very Short Introduction (2021)” and “How to Save Our Planet: The Facts (2021)”. \nThis Deep Dialogue series – Beyond COP: Is It Time to Change Course? – is held in support of the charitable mission of the English-Speaking Union. Every ticket sold will help the English-Speaking Union in its work to give young people the speaking and listening skills and cultural understanding they need to thrive. \nEvent Timings: \n6:00 – 6:30pm | Arrival \n6:30 – 7:30pm | Lecture \n7:30 – 8:30pm | Drinks \n8:30pm | Close \nFurther Information About the Series \nBeyond COP: Is It Time to Change Course? \nWe are in the midst of an existential climate crisis\, from extreme weather and ecosystem decline to biodiversity loss and crop failure. Climate change is also compounding inequality and has the potential to drive significant unrest if we fail to act now. \nIn the aftermath of COP 27 we have the opportunity to consider: Is our current approach enough to deal with the climate crisis or is it time to change course? \nIn this Climate Deep Dialogue we will explore this question and hear from scientists\, academics\, activists\, politicians and entrepreneurs. We invite you to join us for a provocative\, challenging\, engaging and inspiring series of events\, which will focus on finding the solutions to make radical progress on the climate crisis. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/climate-crisis-roadmap-where-we-are-and-where-were-going/ LOCATION:The English-Speaking Union\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Debate Club,ESU Education,ESU Oracy,ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/no-planet-b.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20230116T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20230116T140000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20220817T133423Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221212T114034Z UID:7113-1673863200-1673877600@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Salisbury branch: 'Character and Conflict' by Peter Power DESCRIPTION:Peter will continue his interesting talk about the courageous agents of the Special Operations Executive during the Second World War. He will take it to the next stage by closely looking at some of the characters and conflicts in greater detail. The talk will cover SOE triumphs as well as tragedies. \nCoffee will be served from 10.15am\, with the main talk beginning at 11am sharp\, and lunch from 12.30pm. \nLunch & Talk ticket price: £20 (Members) & £22 (Guests)\nTalk only ticket price: £10 – FREE for first-time visitors \nCheques payable to ‘English-Speaking Union’ should be sent to:\nESU Luncheon Secretary\, 3 Stonemasons Yard\, Salisbury SP1 2HX\nesusalisbury-eventssec@esu.org \nDirect transfers can be made to:\nBank: Coutts & Co\, 440 Strand\, London WC2R 0QS\nSort Code: 18-00-02\nAccount Name: English-Speaking Union of the Commonwealth\nAccount No: 01817590\nPlease mark the transfer clearly as “SalisLunch” URL:https://www.esu.org/event/salisbury-branch-character-and-conflict-by-peter-power/ LOCATION:The White Hart Hotel\, 1 St John's Street\, Salisbury\, SP1 2SD CATEGORIES:ESU Social ORGANIZER;CN="Salisbury and Wiltshire branch":MAILTO:esusalisbury-eventssec@esu.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20221213T173000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20221213T203000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20221111T143058Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221208T094641Z UID:7425-1670952600-1670963400@www.esu.org SUMMARY:South Wales Branch: Christmas at Howell's DESCRIPTION:Christmas celebrations hosted at Howell’s School\, with food and drinks provided by the very well-regarded Epic Caterers. Dinner will be hosted in the Great Hall at 5.30pm on Tuesday\, 13 December. Tables of 8 people\, with flexibility for parties up to 10\, guests of members welcome. There is plenty of parking on site. Details of the guest speaker will be announced soon. \n  \nTo reserve your place\, please return this form as soon as possible and by November 30th at the latest either \nby email: esuswb@gmail.com \nor \nby post: Stephen Purcell\, Windmill Farm House\, Llantwit Road\, Wick\, Vale of Glamorgan. CF71 7QD URL:https://www.esu.org/event/south-wales-branch-christmas-at-howells/ LOCATION:Howell’s School\, 134 Cardiff Road\, CF5 2YD CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Christmas.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="South Wales Branch":MAILTO:esuswb@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20221207T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20221207T140000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20220510T113047Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221128T162457Z UID:6878-1670407200-1670421600@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Salisbury Branch: Felicity Herring\, 'James Barry RA and his niece Dr James Barry' DESCRIPTION:Dr James Barry was first female doctor in Britain. Born in Cork in 1789 she was the niece of the artist James Barry RA. In 1809 she disguised herself as a man and went to Edinburgh University to train to be a doctor. Following her graduation in 1812 she joined the army and was posted to South Africa where she maintained her male persona throughout even fighting a duel. In Cape Town she performed the first successful caesarean section in which both mother and baby survived. Further postings followed to Mauritius\, Jamaica\, Antigua\, Trinidad\, Malta\, Corfu and Canada. It was not until her body was being bathed for her funeral that her female identity was discovered. \nCoffee will be served from 10.15am\, with the main talk beginning at 11am sharp\, and lunch from 12.30pm. \nLunch & Talk ticket price: £22 (Members) & £24 (Guests)\nTalk only ticket price: £10 – FREE for first-time visitors \nCheques payable to ‘English-Speaking Union’ should be sent to:\nESU Luncheon Secretary\, 3 Stonemasons Yard\, Salisbury SP1 2HX\nesusalisbury-eventssec@esu.org \nDirect transfers can be made to:\nBank: Coutts & Co\, 440 Strand\, London WC2R 0QS\nSort Code: 18-00-02\nAccount Name: English-Speaking Union of the Commonwealth\nAccount No: 01817590 URL:https://www.esu.org/event/salisbury-branch-felicity-herring-james-barry-ra-and-his-niece-dr-james-barry/ LOCATION:The White Hart Hotel\, 1 St John's Street\, Salisbury\, SP1 2SD CATEGORIES:ESU Social ORGANIZER;CN="Salisbury and Wiltshire branch":MAILTO:esusalisbury-eventssec@esu.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20221206T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20221206T210000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20221004T121247Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221129T162440Z UID:7288-1670349600-1670360400@www.esu.org SUMMARY:ESU Quizmas at Dartmouth House DESCRIPTION:The ESU will be celebrating the yuletide season with a fabulously festive drinks reception with jazz and Christmas quiz at Dartmouth House on Tuesday\, 6 December at 6pm! \nBrush up on your general knowledge and get ready to prove your status as a ‘snow-it-all’! Ten teams of up to eight people will battle it out to win the top prize of the evening\, tackling a variety of topics across different themed rounds. See the link below to book your tickets – entry per team is priced at £40. \nJazz trio Muted Affair will be performing throughout the evening\, opening our festive drinks reception at Dartmouth House from 6pm. The quiz will commence at 7pm sharp! \nThis event is a fabulously festive opportunity to meet and mingle with fellow members\, branch chairs\, volunteers\, alumni and the board – all whilst helping to support the ESU’s vital educational programmes which equip young people with the oracy skills and confidence they need to change their lives and communities for the better. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/esu-quizmas-at-dartmouth-house/ LOCATION:The English-Speaking Union\, 37 Charles Street\, London\, England\, W1J 5ED\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/fireplace-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20221206T120000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20221206T143000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20221003T144244Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221011T150604Z UID:7301-1670328000-1670337000@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Ouse Valley Branch: 'Busking Beyond Borders' by David Fisher DESCRIPTION:David has headlined at folk clubs around the country. As a director of the buskers’ advocacy group ‘Keep Streets Live’ since 2019\, he has actively campaigned for the rights of street entertainers up and down the country. He has spent a number of years busking his way around nearly 50 countries. His adventures include run–ins with the police in Azerbaijan\, free tickets to see Bruce Springsteen and many more. Alongside regaling the audience with his anecdotes David will be playing some of the songs that he wrote on this journey and bringing the audience up to date with his latest busking travels. \nBooking forms are available on request from Interim Chair\, Ellen Punter\, and must be returned at least seven days prior to the event: ellen.punter@esu.org \nTickets for lunch are priced at £25 for members and £28 for non-members. Talk only tickets are £10. \nThese meetings are open to local branch members and their guests\, as well as other members of the ESU. Ouse Valley branch welcomes new members and embraces those who have supported the ESU\, as well as the local branch\, for many years. URL:https://www.esu.org/event/ouse-valley-branch-busking-beyond-borders-by-david-fisher/ LOCATION:King’s House\, 245 Ampthill Road\, Bedford\, MK42 9AZ\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ORGANIZER;CN="Ouse Valley Branch":MAILTO:ellen.punter@esu.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20221127T121500 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20221127T150000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20221006T084325Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221006T084325Z UID:7335-1669551300-1669561200@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Oxfordshire Branch: Thanksgiving Lunch with Dr Nicholas Cole DESCRIPTION:Dr Nicholas Cole (MA MPhil DPhil Oxf) studies the political thought of the eighteenth and early nineteenth century and is working on a digital project that looks at the way constitutions and treaties have been negotiated over the last two hundred years. His interests are the influence of classical political thought on America’s first politicians\, and the search for a new ‘science of politics’ in post-Independence America. He studied as an undergraduate and graduate at University College\, Oxford\, and was a Visiting Fellow at the International Center for Jefferson Studies at Monticello. He has held research and teaching positions at St Peter’s College\, and within the History Faculty. His doctoral work focused on the use made of classical antiquity by Jefferson’s generation\, and he retains a strong interest in the reception of classical antiquity in the modern world\, about which he has written extensively. He supervises undergraduate and graduate theses on early American politics and ideology and the history of ideas. \nThe menu will be traditional turkey lunch with vegetarian option\, a predinner drink and coffee afterwards\, water at the table. Wine will be available for purchase. \nPlease send cheques to Dr Jan Carter\, Paddock Cottage\, Thrupp\, OX5 1JY payable to ESU\, or pay by BACS to English Speaking Union\, account number 1817590 sort code 18-00-02 ref. Oxford Lunch. If you have any queries please contact Jan Carter\, jan@paddockcottage.net\, 01865 848528. \nThe next committee meeting will be held at Paddock Cottage\, Thrupp OX5 1JY on 28th November at 5pm with optional supper afterwards in the Boat Inn (next door). All members are welcome. Any suggestions for 2023 events will be very welcome. If you can help organise future events\, please join us or give me a call on 01865 848528 or email tim@paddockcottage.net URL:https://www.esu.org/event/oxfordshire-branch-thanksgiving-lunch-with-dr-nicholas-cole/ LOCATION:Studley Wood Golf Club\, The Straight Mile\, Horton-Cum-Studley Oxford OX33 1BF\, The Straight Mile\, Horton-Cum-Studley\, Oxford\, OX33 1BF\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/club-house-915x515-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Oxford Branch":MAILTO:jan@paddockcottage.net END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20221121T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20221121T140000 DTSTAMP:20250320T111505 CREATED:20220510T112701Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220824T161634Z UID:6877-1669024800-1669039200@www.esu.org SUMMARY:Salisbury Branch: Johnny Fenn\, 'Nepal - a photographer's perspective' DESCRIPTION:As an ambassador for the charity Hello World\, Johnny has travelled frequently to Nepal and been actively involved in their project to provide solar powered internet-enabled education hubs to remote communities. He has built a very successful career as a photographer specialising in adventure\, expedition and commercial photography. \nCoffee will be served from 10.15am\, with the main talk beginning at 11am sharp\, and lunch from 12.30pm. \nLunch & Talk ticket price: £20 (Members) & £22 (Guests)\nTalk only ticket price: £10 – FREE for first-time visitors \nCheques payable to ‘English-Speaking Union’ should be sent to:\nESU Luncheon Secretary\, 3 Stonemasons Yard\, Salisbury SP1 2HX\nesusalisbury-eventssec@esu.org \nDirect transfers can be made to:\nBank: Coutts & Co\, 440 Strand\, London WC2R 0QS\nSort Code: 18-00-02\nAccount Name: English-Speaking Union of the Commonwealth\nAccount No: 01817590 URL:https://www.esu.org/event/salisbury-branch-johnny-fenn-nepal-a-photographers-perspective/ LOCATION:The White Hart Hotel\, 1 St John's Street\, Salisbury\, SP1 2SD CATEGORIES:ESU Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.esu.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Johnny-Fenn-November-22.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Salisbury and Wiltshire branch":MAILTO:esusalisbury-eventssec@esu.org END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR