This informal talk covers several sources of early weather records in Reading dating from 1831 through to today

Overview

Dr Stephen Burt FRMetS, University of Reading, Department of Meteorology, research for his new book detailing the University’s long weather records as part of centenary celebrations has unearthed many interesting historical facts and photographs relating to Reading’s weather, past and present.

This informal talk covers several sources of early weather records in Reading dating from 1831, particularly the record at the university which commenced at the London Road campus in 1908, relocating to Whiteknights in 1968 where it continues today.

It showcases the university’s very own climate stripe and unearths two long-lost nineteenth century weather stations in central Reading. Some of the most notable weather events in the last 200 years will be covered , many illustrated with contemporary photographs. These include some of Reading’s most notable floods, heatwaves, snowstorms (including the one that disrupted the London Olympics), and of course Reading’s seven known tornadoes — including the one that killed Henry West at Reading Station in March 1840. In passing he will touch on the aurora, zepplins and even a volcano or two. while in the conclusion we examine the question- has Reading’s climate changed?

More about Dr Burt may be found on Talk: Saturday 21 November 2pm; Two Hundred Years of Reading Weather - Reading Civic Society (https://www.readingcivicsociety.org.uk/news/two-hundred-years-of-reading-weather/)

Entry Fee: The event is free to Reading Civic Society members./ A donation of £5 per head is sought from non members which will be allocated to the society's work to develop a Blue Plaque Scheme for Reading.

LOCATION AND ACCESS

Saturday 21 November starting at 2pm. Arrive from 1:40pm

The presentation will be in the Garden Hall of Watlington House (a "Tin Tabernacle" in the garden at the rear of the house).

Access to the hall is via the double garden gates on South Street opposite to no 71 South Street.RG1 4AP Or using What 3 words https://w3w.co/broke.critic.pouch (https://w3w.co/broke.critic.pouch)

70 people can be seated.

Toilets are available, however there are no disabled toilets.

PARKING

Only 3 parking spaces are available in the rear of the garden (access South Street) and so can only be allocated to those with limited mobility, please ask the organiser Bennettbaker@msn.com if you need this.

On Saturdays there are 10 car park spaces at the front of Watlington House which may be used, access down Watlington Street. If you need this please email us and we will send a pass.

Otherwise it is pay parking in South Street. or in the Times Car Park (formerly NCP) on South Street the other side of Sidmouthe Street (RingGo number 43108).

Far better to walk or catch the No 17. Buses stop on London Road and on Kings Road a short walk from the Garden Hall.

Description supplied by the event organiser.