AT the January meeting, Bernard Pumphrey gave an illustrated talk about Bath and Wells. The Romans discovered hot springs, and built an important town around them from which the town of Bath got its name.

In the 18th century “taking the waters” became fashionable and Bath became a resort for society. Ralph Allen, who owned quarries of Bath stone, and John Wood an architect, began developing a city suitable for those who began flocking there for their health and entertainment, presided over by the influential Beau Nash. One of the first areas to be built was Queen’s Square, where Wood built the frontages of the houses, and his clients had the backs of the houses completed according to their individual finances. Bath is full of elegant buildings, some of which are now museums. The beautiful abbey, begun in 1499, replaced the original Norman Abbey. The tiny city of Wells, is dominated by the cathedral which was begun in the late 12th century, and is famous for its two clocks, and the swirl of arches across the nave which was erected shortly after the central tower was built to stop it falling. Also, near the cathedral is an outwardly little-altered 14th century street.

The next meeting will be at 7.30pm on February 12 at Feckenham Village Hall when Dr Richard Churchley will talk about Old Pubs and Lost Hostelries in the area.

On March 12 at Webheath Village Hall Chris Upton will talk about A Personal History of Birmingham. Members and visitors are welcome.