Swallowfield Local History Newsletter 

 

Welcome to the April 2026 News Letter.

 

Graham Puddephatt, chair of the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust gives a talk on the past, present and future of the canal system that is an integral part of Readings history and identity. 

 

"The rivers Kennet and Avon were made navigable in the early 18th century.  Between 1794 and 1810, a 57 mile canal section was constructed linking them together and the whole waterway is now known as The Kennet & Avon Canal Following this it has had a turbulent past going from a thriving transport network to falling into disuse with the opening of the Great West Railway. Towards the end of the 20th century, with the creation of the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust, it was restored in sections and fully opened in 1990 and is now enjoyed  by many visitors to this day"

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Do come and join us to find out more about Swallowfield Local History Society.

Entrance fee for Members is £2.00 and Non Members £3.00 on the night.
Membership for the year is £5.00

Our meetings are usually on the third Thursday of the month at 7.45pm for 8pm, in the Rose Room at Swallowfield Parish Hall. Visitors are always welcome. If you have any queries, please call Mike Round on 0118 988 7753 or e-mail slhsoc@yahoo.co.uk

If you are interested in future and upcoming events, visit our website, www.slhsoc.org.uk, for our full programme.

Mike Round
Swallowfield Local History Society