May 2026 – Peter Jenkins – The Romans in Wirral
Peter Jenkins was awarded the Wirral Award in 2022 in recognition of his outstanding voluntary work and his dedication to preserving and promoting the Wirral’s heritage. As a driving force behind Wirral Archaeology, Peter gives his time generously to a wide range of local heritage projects.
Peter spoke to members about a fascinating but little-known aspect of local history — the story of the Romans on the Wirral Peninsula.
His talk explored the evidence of Roman activity in the area and gave members an insight into what life may have been like on the Wirral nearly 2,000 years ago.
Adding to the interest, Peter brought along a fascinating selection of Roman coins and artefacts discovered on the Wirral, including several pieces from his own personal collection.
Being able to see these remarkable objects at first hand brought the history to life and gave members a tangible connection to the Roman presence on the Wirral.
Peter signing the Speakers Book
A solid silver coin dated 300BC which was very heavy!
May 2026 – Afternoon Tea – Port Sunlight Village
Walk & Talk followed by Afternoon Tea at Port Sunlight Village
Members met at Bromborough train station before setting off on a fascinating walking tour of Port Sunlight Village, led by club member Marie Passey, who is also a Blue Badge Tour Guide for Liverpool City.
Marie brought the history of this unique village to life, sharing stories about its origins, architecture and the people who lived and worked there.
William Hesketh Lever, founder of the famous Lever Brothers soap company, and his brother James Darcy Lever decided to relocate their rapidly expanding business from Warrington to a new site at Port Sunlight. Construction of the factory began in 1888.
Alongside the new factory, Lever created a purpose-built village to provide homes and a better quality of life for his workers. More than 900 beautifully designed Arts and Crafts-style houses were built, set amongst attractive gardens, open spaces and parkland.
The result was a remarkable community that combined industry with thoughtful housing and a pleasant environment for its workers and their families.
William Lever had the vision to provide his workers with decent, sanitary and affordable housing. The health and wellbeing of his workforce was very important to the brothers, and the many amenities and welfare provisions helped make life more secure and comfortable, while also encouraging loyalty and commitment to the company.
Port Sunlight was much more than a place to live. Lever created a thriving community with facilities designed to support the health, education and wellbeing of workers and their families.
The village had schools, a hospital, its own Fire and Ambulance Brigade, swimming pool, gymnasium, bank and open-air theatre.
The Provident Society Store was owned and financed by employees through shares, selling essentials such as clothing, boots, coal and confectionery.
A Sick, Funeral & Medical Aid Society also provided support. For a small weekly contribution of between 2d and 8d, workers and their families received free medical care, sickness benefits and help with funeral expenses.
Families could also have allotments, providing a healthy escape from factory life while helping to supplement the family diet.
Port Sunlight was a remarkable example of a community designed to improve the quality of life for workers and their families.
The first shop in Port Sunlight opened in 1891….it later became the Post Office when other shops opened 3 years later…..It is now a cafe called The Tearooms
On the right is the carved stone Royal Coat of Arms above the entrance to the General Offices.
Above is the Gladstone Hall which was originally the men’s dining room ( the women had a separate dining room). The hall is now a theatre.
Above – The church were Lord & Lady Lever are buried. Right – The Tomb of Lord & Lady Lever.
Bridge Cottage – now a small art gallery.
Marie Passey, our tour guide, along side the amazing water fountain which was built in the village to celebrate the Silver Wedding of Lord & Lady Lever.
The Girls Club, now Port Sunlight Museum and Shop.
The Diamond Jubilee Sundial 2012 ( with Lady Lever Art Gallery in the background) The Analemmatic Sundial works if you stand on the month stone and the time will be where your shadow is cast across the hour pillars !!
The statues at the base of a huge obelisk – The Leverhulme Memorial Obelisk (from the workers) outside Lady Lever Art Gallery, depict the personal qualities and lifelong interests of William Lever, 1st Viscount Leverhulme –
- Industry – a man holding a tool, representing hard work.
- Charity – a woman cradling a child.
- Education – a scholar holding a book and pointing at a page.
- Art – a woman with a painters palette.
And finally, after a fascinating Walk & Talk, the day was rounded off the day in style with a delicious Afternoon Tea in the beautiful surroundings of Holme Hall — the perfect end to a wonderful day of history and good food!
April 2026 – Garry Lunt – Rock’n’Roll Cinema – How music shaped the photos
Gary Lunt gave members a fascinating, lively and enthusiastic talk, exploring the powerful connection between Liverpool’s legendary music scene and the world of film.
His presentation brought together iconic bands, memorable songs and famous movies, showing how music and musicians have influenced cinema over the years and helped shape some of Hollywood’s most memorable moments.
Gary is a film historian and Blue Badge Guide and the founder of Reel Tours, Liverpool’s only dedicated Film & TV location walking tour. His tours take visitors on an entertaining journey through the city’s rich cinematic history, exploring locations that have featured in iconic films and television productions.
What makes Reel Tours particularly special is the way Gary combines Liverpool’s extraordinary film heritage with its world-famous musical history, bringing together two of the city’s greatest cultural exports.
Gary’s talk was a wonderful celebration of Liverpool, music, film and the enduring influence they have had on each other.
Gary ready to start his talk
March 2026 – Fiona Slattery Clarke – The Creativity of Women Fashion Designers, 1900–2000
Fiona Slattery Clarke, pictured below with Club President Janette Bullough
Fiona Slattery Clarke is a Curator of Decorative Art at National Museums Liverpool, where she works with the organisation’s extensive collections.
National Museums Liverpool holds a remarkable fashion and textile collection spanning from the 1700s to the present day. The collection is displayed and cared for across several sites, including the Walker Art Gallery, Lady Lever Art Gallery at Port Sunlight and Sudley House in Mossley Hill.
Fiona gave a fascinating talk exploring the creativity and influence of women fashion designers throughout the 20th century. She highlighted how pioneering designers transformed women’s clothing, moving away from the restrictive and formal styles traditionally associated with aristocratic fashion towards designs that were bold, practical, comfortable and affordable for everyday women.
Her talk also explored the wider world of fashion and decorative arts, including jewellery and other decorative objects, showing how these reflected changing attitudes, lifestyles and social expectations.
Among the designers Fiona featured were:
- Vivienne Westwood, who brought the rebellious spirit of punk into mainstream fashion and became one of Britain’s most influential designers.
- Mary Quant, whose iconic miniskirt helped define the youthful fashion revolution of the 1960s.
- Laura Ashley, renowned for her distinctive romantic, nostalgic designs and floral prints, which became synonymous with a particular style of British fashion.
Fiona’s talk provided a fascinating insight into how women designers not only changed the way women dressed, but also challenged conventions and reflected the changing role of women throughout the 20th century.
Fiona Slattery Clarke, pictured with Club President Janette Bullough
March 2026 – Alan Banner– Merseyside and Cheshire Blood Bikes
Alan Banner from Merseyside & Cheshire Blood Bikes gave an interesting talk on Merseyside & Cheshire Blood Bikes which is a 100% voluntary organisation providing a vital, free service to hospitals and hospices across Merseyside and Cheshire.
The team transports essential medical items, including blood, plasma, donor breast milk, human tissue and medication, helping to ensure that these critical supplies reach where they are needed safely and quickly.
The charity’s fleet of liveried motorcycles is fitted with large, insulated top boxes, specially designed to safely transport temperature-sensitive medical supplies.
The service operates entirely through public donations and corporate sponsorship. It costs approximately £25,000 each year to keep the bikes on the road, covering essential costs such as bike maintenance and replacement, as well as safety clothing and equipment for volunteers.
Some volunteers even use their own motorcycles, covering their own fuel and maintenance costs.
No rider receives payment for their time. Every mile is ridden by volunteers who give their time and resources to support the NHS and help patients across the region.
In recognition of the organisation’s outstanding contribution to the community, Merseyside & Cheshire Blood Bikes was awarded The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2019 — one of the highest honours given to voluntary organisations in the UK.
February 2026 – Val Jackson – A Century of Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral
Val Jackson, Liverpool Cathederal Volunteer, gave a fascinating talk entitled “A Centry of Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral”.
Article – From Liverpool Cathederal Facebook – Spotlight on Volunteer:
“Val Jackson has been an integral part of Liverpool Cathedral’s story for over forty years. Her remarkable journey continues, as she still discovers new treasures within the Cathedral every week.
Val’s association with the Cathedral began in 1981, when her son became a member of the choir. Years later, as the Cathedral approached the centenary of its foundation stone in 2003, Val agreed to assist with the archives for what was intended to be just a week. However, that short-term plan evolved, and twenty-five years on, she remains a dedicated presence in the archives.
Hidden above the hustle and bustle, up a narrow spiral staircase, lies the Cathedral’s archive – a treasure trove of fascinating history. Within these walls are rare documents and artefacts that reveal the story behind the Cathedral’s iconic structure. Val, together with a small team, meticulously lists and catalogues these items, curating exhibitions and working closely with the Cathedral’s guides to bring the rich history to life for visitors.”
January 2026 – Chris Kirkatrick – The British Judicial System
Chris Kirkpatrick provided members with a fascinating and engaging perspective on the British Judicial System. Drawing upon his extensive experience as an Independent Monitor of the Criminal Justice System in the North West, Kirkpatrick shared details of his oversight work in both Crown and Magistrates courts.
As an Independent Monitor, Kirkpatrick’s duties include inspecting the conditions of court cells and observing the processes involved in transporting individuals from prison to court. He takes a keen interest in the care provided by prison officers and court staff to individuals who appear before judges, ensuring that standards are maintained throughout.
Through his regular visits to courts, Kirkpatrick offers valuable insights into the everyday functioning of the judicial system. His experiences shed light on the behind-the-scenes aspects of justice, from the treatment of detainees to the professionalism of those entrusted with their care.
December 2025 – Christmas Lunch and Quiz
November 2025 – Lydia Becker and the Women’s Suffrage Movement
Joanna Williams delivered a passionate address to the members, highlighting the remarkable achievements of Lydia Becker. As a prominent leader of the Women’s Suffrage movement in the latter part of the nineteenth century, Becker played a pivotal role in advancing women’s rights.
In January 1867, Lydia Becker convened the inaugural meeting of the Manchester Women’s Suffrage Committee. This event marked an important milestone in the campaign for women’s voting rights and signalled the organised efforts that would follow in pursuit of equality.
Becker campaigned tirelessly for the voting rights of unmarried women, striving to ensure their voices were heard in the democratic process. Her advocacy extended beyond suffrage; she championed women’s and girls’ rights to academic education and equal opportunities to work. As a formidable lobbyist, she influenced Members of Parliament and was central to advancing the cause within government.
After Lydia Becker’s death in 1890, her legacy was carried forward by other notable suffrage leaders, including Emmeline Pankhurst and Millicent Fawcett. Their continued efforts built upon Becker’s foundation, leading to further progress in the fight for women’s rights—the rest, as they say, is history.
Joanna Williams (left) alongside Club President Janette Bullough
November 2025 – Afternoon Tea
Members gathered at The Loft for a delightful afternoon tea, enjoying a selection of refreshments and the opportunity to socialise with fellow attendees in a relaxed setting. Following the tea, the gathering continued with a talk delivered by Joanna Williams.
October 2025 – The Women’s Organisation Liverpool – A Champion for Women’s Economic Development
Professor Maggie O’Carroll, CEO of The Women’s Organisation Liverpool, visited and was photographed alongside Club President Janette Bullough. This notable occasion highlighted the inspiring work of Professor O’Connor, who established The Women’s Organisation in Liverpool in 1996.
Professor O’Carroll spoke about her organisation’s commitment to training, supporting, and motivating women to launch and expand their own businesses. The Women’s Organisation actively collaborates with businesses and communities throughout the region, advocating for women’s interests and ensuring their voices are represented.
As a charity and social enterprise, The Women’s Organisation has grown to become the largest body dedicated to Women’s Economic Development in the UK, reflecting its significant impact and reach within the sector.
October 2025 – Members Trip Cadbury’s World
Our members enjoyed an amazing and fun day at Cadbury’s World, with a range of engaging activities and experiences.
On arrival we had the Exhibition Tour, discovering the making and the magic behind the Cadbury Brandoriginal graffiti which is situated in a corner of the children’s playground.
Members also had the opportunity to try their hand at decorating techniques, adding a creative touch to the day’s proceedings.
Following these activities, a light afternoon tea was served, providing a chance to relax before embarking on a guided walking tour of Bournville Village. The tour included visits to two local churches and the historic old bank, allowing members to explore the rich heritage of the area.
Two local churches
The old bank
September 2025 – Change of President
Our new President Janette Bullough (right) presents retiring President Sylvia Ellis with flowers from the Members.
September 2025 – The History of the Beautiful Aloft Hotel
Following the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting, several members of staff from the Aloft Hotel shared a brief but informative talk with us. Their presentation focused on the rich history of the magnificent Aloft Hotel building, offering fascinating details about its origins and architectural significance.
The building, which now houses the Aloft Hotel, originally served as the head office of the Royal Insurance Company. Constructed between the late 1890s and 1903, it stands as an early and notable example of architectural innovation from that period. In particular, it is recognised as the earliest instance of a stone building constructed around a steel frame, demonstrating both the ambition and technical progressiveness of its era.
September 2025 – The History of the British Police Force
Chris Upham MBE, BEM a retired Detective Constable in Cheshire Constabulary gave a talk to members on The History of the British Police Force.
June 2025 – Operation Fish!
In June, Bernard Nevin ( pictured with Club President Sylvia Ellis) gave a fascinating talk about Operation Fish- the incredible true story of the movement of part of the Nations Gold Reserve when the country was threatened by invasion.
Some of the Gold was transported in secret by rail from London to Liverpool in May 1940 and stored in the vaults of Martin’s Bank in the city centre.
Some of the gold was then transported by sea to Canada and Bermuda for safety.
May 2025 – Afternoon Tea and Liverpool One Walk
Our amazing Afternoon Tea at The Bluecoat was preceded by a walk and talk around Liverpool One. The talk was given by Club Member Marie Passey who is a Blue Badge Tourist Guide for the City.
Our tour started at The Bluecoat (the UK’s first arts centre ) which is next to the site where the Liverpool Blue Coat School was founded in 1708 by Reverend Robert Styth and master mariner Bryan Blundell, a charity school for orphaned children. The first picture here shows the original graffiti which is situated in a corner of the children’s playground.
The development of Liverpool One by Grosvenor Estates, including the John Lewis shop took into account the tremendous heritage and history of existing older buildings. John Lewis is built on the original Pool of Liverpool which became one of the first docks.
A view of the domed tower on the Bluecoat building, taken from Liverpool One.
A view of the Liver Building taken from outside the gates of The Bluecoat.
This gateway was located at the entrance of Liverpool Sailor’s Home which opened in 1852, providing seamen with board, lodging and medical help.
It is dedicated as a memorial to all sailors who have passed through Liverpool during its long history as an international seaport
May 2025 – Christine Mounsey, Community Engagement Manager for the Liverpool Football Club Foundation, gave a fascinating talk to members about the huge range of projects and programmes they have within local communities that are making a difference to people who live in and around the Anfield, Kirkby and Melwood Avenue homes.
April 2025 – Moira McLoughlin from Dementia Friends spoke to Club members of their work in the Community, supporting patients, family and friends living with Dementia
March 2025 – Angela Howarth, a trained Tai Chi teacher demonstrated some basic movements used in Tai Chi and members were encouraged to join in.
Angela demonstrating Tai Chi
March 2025 – Jan Ellis gave us a fascinating insight into the work of Forensic Linguistics.
February 2025 – Dr Martyn Bracewell, Consultant Neurologist pictured with Club President, Silvia Ellis, spoke about the amazing work and staff over the years who have contributed into making The Walton Centre a leading Neurology Centre of Excellence .
January 2025 – Professor Monica Grady gave a memorable talk to the 2918 Club about her year living and working in Antarctic as a Meteorologist…… her journey there, her work collecting meteor samples and living in such a challenging environment. Fantastic !!
January 2025 – Aloft Hotel, Liverpool – The new base for The 1918 Club
November 2024 – Rev Jeremy Tear spoke to the Club about his work as a Chaplain in Sport.
November 2024 – Max Steinberg spoke about the development and building of Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescott, it’s impact on the regeneration of the area and importance to the cultural heritage of the North West
October 2024 – Cathy Heyes (pictured signing the Speakers book with Club President Sylvia Ellis) spoke to the Club about her life as a script writer for television, particularly the Soap Operas.
September 2024 – Diana Goodier gave a fascinating talk about the lives and roles of Viking Women supported by examples of tools, jewellery and clothes.
June 2024 – Louisa Collins ( pictured with Club President, Sylvia Ellis and is also daughter of Club member Siobhan Desmet) gave an amusing and interesting account of her career journey in a very male dominated field, to Academy Manager (Operations) for Birmingham City Football Club.
May 2024 – Ann Coffey ( pictured with Club President, Sylvia Ellis ) spoke to members about her work with The Sunshine Group, a North West Charity, originally established at Aintree Hospital, supporting women facing breast cancer from diagnosis, through treatment and beyond. Ann took over The Sunshine Support group in 2013 with 6 members, all individuals affected by Breast cancer and it has significantly grown to over 350 members. The group is open to anyone who has experienced breast cancer, including family members.
sunshinegroup.org.uk
April 2024 – Trip to Everton Football Club
Club members went on a trip to Everton Football Club.
Afternoon Tea
Club members enjoyed an amazing and delicious afternoon tea in the Bluecoat Base function room.
Everton in the Community
Michael Salla Spoke to the members about the work of Everton in the Community. He covered their work to improve the mental, physical health and wellbeing of the Community, providing a wide range of services, including a team of health professionals on site.
ADHD Support Hub
One of the EITC team spoke about the ADHD Support Hub, which with the guidance of the Community GP, aims to increase understanding of managing ADHD, whilst giving access to support and resources.
Tour of Everton Stadium
Mark Higgins, ex player, showed members round with the help of the very knowledgeable tour guide.
The Press Room
Dressing Room – The home team’s dressing room and ice baths.
March 2024 – Helen Legg, Director of Tate Liverpool, spoke about the present closure of the Tate for total refurbishment (which will be ready late 2025) with the aim of making it more accessible to the city and hopefully the leading art gallery in the country.
February 2024 – Dr Margaret Emsley, pictured with Club President Sylvia Ellis, spoke about her life as a Civil Engineer.
February 2024 – Maria Breslin, Editor of the Liverpool Echo, spoke about her journalistic career up to the present day.
January 2024 – Dr Natalie Kenny, Founder and CEO of BioGrad, gave a passionate talk about her company’s work in medical and scientific research and also in the field of regenerative medicine.
November 2023 – Christmas at the Athenaeum Club.
November 2023 – Anne Hodgson from the Walton Centre spoke about their charity’s fund raising efforts at the world renowned hospital. Club member Pauline Higgins (pictured with Ann Hodgson) is a volunteer fundraiser for the charity.
October 2023 – Sue Gregory, CEO of Everton in the Community, spoke about the work the charity is doing in the Everton area.
September 2023 – Dr Janet Hollinshead and Marie Passey, both Athenaeum Club Members, showed us priceless items from the Athenaeum Library.
September 2023 – Sylvia Ellis, the new Club President. September 2023 – 2025
April 2023 – Marie Passey, a blue badge guide for Liverpool and Club member, took us on a walkabout to look at the architectural hidden gems in Old Hall Street/Exchange area of Liverpool
March 2023 – Janette Porter spoke to The Club about the amazing work with the Sreepur Village Bangladesh Charity, originally set up in 1989 by Pat Kerr, to help empower single women and their children. Her Mum, Rubina Porter (a former Lady Mayoress of Liverpool) and Janette are both trustees of the charity. Rubina spoke to the 1918 Club about the village 10 years ago
