A BOROUGH Probus Club welcomed journalist and author Sharon Wright to its June meeting.
Sharon’s speciality is the forgotten women of history.
She is the published author of The Lost History of the Lady Aeronauts.
During her illustrated talk for Probus members she talked about one of her particular heroines, eighteenth century West End actress Mrs Letitia Sage, who became the first Englishwoman to fly as a hot air balloon passenger .
At the time such a risky enterprise, with its accompanying show business publicity, attracted great crowds and considerable comment in the contemporary press.
“This was an age of satirical cartoons drawn with unparallelled vulgarity, which included allusions to the Mile High Club,” said David Hunter from the Probus club.
“Sharon’s meticulous research showed this allegation to be quite untrue, but equally scandalous.
“It was a most enjoyable presentation, which was appreciated by all.”
Probus Clubs provide opportunities for retired or semi-retired professional and business people (men and women) to meet socially.
Wokingham Probus meets on the first Wednesday of the month at Coppid Beech Hotel.
Members meet for social gathering, to lunch together, and to hear a talk on a subject of general interest.
Topics are wide ranging, and chosen to be informative and entertaining.
Probus is not primarily a fund-raising body – emphasis is on friendship, lunching together and social activities.
However one charity is supported each year by members,.
This year a collection was made for the Motor Neurone Disease Association at the group’s February meeting.
Between monthly meetings the club runs a book reading group, theatre visits and outings for afternoon tea and places of interest.
New members are always welcome to join the club at one of its monthly meetings by prior arrangement with the club secretary.
This year the club will hear talks on subjects that include: local curiosities, hypnotism, antiques, and Berkshire weather.
Meetings are at Coppid Beech Hotel, Bracknell, on the first Wednesday of the month, from 12:30pm, with lunch at 1pm, followed by a talk.
The next event will take place on Wednesday, July 1.
To join the club, people are invited to email: wokinghamprobus@gmail.com
