The Glossop Guild sessions come back this September

The Glossop Guild provides enjoyable talks and courses on a wide range of subjects for people in Glossopdale and further afield. Its new autumn programme starts in September.

The not-for-profit, non-political, voluntary organisation, run by a committee of dedicated volunteers, was set up 15 years ago following a public meeting. 

The Committee takes suggestions for talks and courses from local people and Guild members, or its committee thinks of subjects which may interest people. The committee brings high quality speakers to Glossop - academics, specialists, or speakers with a lifetime enthusiasm for their subject - who deliver talks in an interesting and informative way. 

Glossop Guild Chairperson Mike Webb said: “Our courses and talks have always been geared to the needs of local people, and costs are kept to a minimum. Many are delivered by current or retired university and college lecturers.

“Speakers put over their subject in a clear and understandable way using plain English even if the subject matter is quite involved. They make complex subjects interesting and engaging to the person on the street. We try and provide subjects with a wide appeal, delivered in a way which holds people’s attention and interests them. We feel that TV, radio, and other media can’t compete with a subject delivered at a local venue or live Zoom session. There’s also a greater opportunity to ask questions as the speaker is on hand.”

Talks and courses are two hours with a tea/coffee break half-way through. Other subjects take two or more sessions to cover it more thoroughly. The breaks provide an ideal opportunity to meet and chat to other attendees.

Course Organiser Maggie Mooney has finalised the Autumn Term programme running from September-December. There’s also a Spring Term programme from January-March. Autumn Term courses and talks include Palestine 1946 The Coming of the State of Israel and First Arab Israeli War; the Lost Booker Prize; Manchester’s Avro Aviation Heritage; the Amazing Journeys of Tea, Coffee and Hot Chocolate;Making Sense of the US Presidential Election; and Women of the Raj.

Anyone can attend Guild talks and courses which take place at Bradbury House in Glossop, or via Zoom. You can become a Guild member for just £10 a year which brings welcome discounts on course fees, both in-person and Zoom season pass. For information on all courses, talks and booking, go to www.glossopguild.org or email glossopguild@gmail.com

Members can also attend a free members social evening in December, and the AGM with full voting rights and opportunities to comment on how the Guild is running.There is a talk by a chosen speaker.

Mike concluded: “We feel we provide a much-needed outlet for people to learn about the world around us in a way that leaves them wanting more. Our wide range of events and subjects should appeal to everyone who wants to extend their knowledge of the world around them. We believe we do it as well as any other organisation in the country, so why not come along to one of our courses and see if it’s for you.”