Pensford Local History Group held the second of its three autumn talks, and we were delighted to welcome Colin Budge back to talk about three different industries on the River Chew.

Many years ago Colin did a Masters in Local History and has shared his love of the Chew Valley and it's history with lots of local groups over the years.

Colin explained in his talk "Mills, Glass and Coal (Stanton Drew to Publow)" how for almost 200 years this few miles along the River Chew was really busy with different mills, as well as small scale coal extraction in nearby fields and the glass works at Stanton Wick.

Using some of his own lovely photographs alongside maps and other images he showed how different life and work would have been with many people employed in the mills. We had a good turn out at the meeting, and had a really stimulating questions and answers session at the end.

Our next talk will be on Monday, 5th December, 7.30pm at the Memorial Hall, when Garry Atterton will talk about Bedminster Coal: Blood, Sweat and Tears. Everyone welcome.

Hilary Cox