Free talks series to cover archaeology, jazz music and cricket history

Florence Park Community Centre will host the talks, which aim to attract “curious minds” and will be held on various dates.

The talks will take place at the community centre on Cornwallis Road, beginning at 7.30pm, with the bar open all evening.

The series, which has been running for more than two years, has previously covered topics such as the history of Rose Hill, the Kurdish diaspora, and particle accelerator science, attracting 80 to 100 people per session.

More than £3,000 has been raised so far, contributing to the community centre’s running costs.

Upcoming talks include Oxford Preservation Trust CEO Anna Eavis discussing the future of Oxford on October 9, and Olaf Bayer presenting ‘The Archaeology of East Oxford’ on November 27.

George Marshall will explore the history of jazz music on December 11, and Michael Stimpson will delve into Oxford’s cricket history on February 12.

The series will conclude on April 9 with Mark Davies discussing the history of university rowing in Oxford.

There will also be talks on democracy, the work of The Samaritans in Oxford, and the “collapse” of public services in the UK.

While the events are free, organisers encourage attendees to donate a minimum of £5 per person.