READING enthusiasts will gather this month to discover their town’s link with a beloved English charity.
Hosted by the History of Reading Society, the meeting will feature a talk by author Duncan Mackay entitled: ‘How is Reading philanthropist Arthur Hill connected to the National Trust?’
The talk will follow the story of Arthur’s sister Octavia, who founded the National Trust as part of her passion for providing green spaces for everyone.
Beyond her work on open spaces, Octavia was also a social reformer and activist, aiming to improve housing for the poor.
Duncan Mackay, a resident of Henley and Twyford since 1981, is an artist and the author of six books.
One of his books, ‘Reading,’ tells the town’s complete history, beginning with the geology of the natural landscape 145 million years ago.
Books will be available for purchase at the meeting.
The talk will be held at Abbey Baptist Church, Reading.
Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start, on Wednesday, October 15.
This meeting is open to all, with visitors asked to pay £2.
For more information, visit: historyofreadingsociety.org.uk
