Henley Men’s Probus held its 519th meeting at Badgemore Golf Club on Tuesday, 10th March 2026. The meeting was opened by Chairman Tony Cobb who introduced the guest speaker Jim Donahue who gave a talk about his latest book entitled “The Thames Valley; Past, Present and Future (A snapshot of English Life)”.
Jim, assisted by a slide show, recalled the history of the Thames Valley from its very early days through to 2026. The book illustrates how the Thames Valley area had, over hundreds of years, carefully conserved its environment despite numerous wars, particularly around Anglo-Saxon times. It details activities that took place 500,000 years ago, such as the manufacture of hand axes, through to the first human settlements in Dorchester-on-Thames and leading onto more recent times such as the creation of RAF Benson (in WWII), the automotive business in Oxford (particularly the Mini) and the Henley Regatta, which is now an event with participants from across the globe.
Jim highlighted the Regatta as being an excellent example of how the British are famous for creating traditions which become world famous.
After a number of questions Jim was thanked for his presentation which was very well received by the Probus Club members.