Wednesday, 16 January

Peel Society programme 2008

The Tamworth based Peel Society, which honours the memory of Sir Robert Peel, twice Home Secretary and Prime Minister, has an exciting programme organised for 2008.

Firstly, Nigel Morris, the Vice Chairman, will give an illustrated talk at the Phil Dix Centre on February 27th on Peel and Ireland.  Peel's political career was dominated by Ireland from taking his Westminster seat for Cashel in 1809 to his defeat in the House of Commons over the Irish Coercion bill in 1846.  The talk starts at 7.30 pm and costs £5.00, including a glass of wine or soft drink.  Students under 18 and those with a valid student card can hear the talk free.  Tickets are available from the Tourist Information Centre (TIC), Market Street.

On Easter Monday, the Society opens its collection at Middleton Hall for the summer season.

On Saturday, March 29th, The Peel Society, The Friends of Tamworth Castle and Museum and The Tamworth Heritage Trust are holding a joint Quiz evening at the St John's Ambulance Rooms, Moor Street Tickets are £6.00, which includes Pie and Chips.  More information from one of the groups.

In April, the Peel Society, is organising a visit to Woburn Abbey and Hatfield House.  Two great political dynasties lived in these houses, the Russells and Cecils.  Lord John Russell was Peel's Whig opponent.  There will be an overnight stay in St. Albans.

September brings a visit to Ireland, where the Society will visit Leinster House, the seat of the Irish Parliament in Dublin as well as a tour to Kinsale and the Ring of Kerry.  At the far end of the Ring is Derrymane Abbey, where the great Irish patriot, Daniel O'Connell was born and brought up.  We shall be visiting this famous house in Irish history. He and Peel nearly fought a duel as they were fierce political opponents.  Fortunately, it didn't happen as O'Connell was a crack shot!