The River At War

Bill King started with ancient history about the importance of the Thames and defence measures in the south of England at the time of the Roman invasion.  It was an eye opener to learn so much detail about  place names, bridges and far more recent riverbank defences from the source of the river just a couple of miles from where we were, all the way to London.  The Thames was a barrier to an invading army. It is surprising to learn just how much industry was nearby and that there are still so many examples of historic boats and celebrations to be found along the Thames. Bill enlightened us with the explanation for the ditches across North Meadow in Cricklade and other local examples of wartime defences still evident in our local area.

Discussion following the talk