We are delighted to invite you to join us for brunch and a talk by the Oxford academic, prize winning poet and novelist Patrick McGuinness about his fascinating work of non-fiction, Real Oxford.
Patrick has lived and worked in Oxford for over thirty years. “In all these years in Oxford”, he admits, “I’d seen the place, but I’d never really noticed it.” In Real Oxford, he invites the reader to look beyond the postcard clichés often associated with this city of learning.
Patrick will illustrate his talk with photographs. This promises to be a lively, informative and thought provoking session which will offer an entirely fresh perspective on the Oxford we know and love. Patrick will bring copies of his book for sale, which would make a lovely Christmas present for anyone who loves Oxford.
Before the talk, from 11am, we will serve a brunch of bacon butties (or veggie alternative), pastries, fruit, tea and coffee with a glass of Buck’s fizz! The talk will begin at 11.45 am and there will be ample time for questions and socialising afterwards. Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions.
The proceeds from the event will help to fund the restoration of the Bevington Road student houses. Much loved by generations of St Anne’s students, these 10 Victorian houses, built in 1867, are in poor condition and urgently require regeneration. A member of the St Anne’s College Development team will attend the talk and will provide further information about the restoration project and appeal for funds.
HOW TO GET THERE
Beech is located half a mile from the A339 Alton to Basingstoke Rd, from where it is clearly signposted. The Hall is located on the village green at the junction of Medstead Rd and Wellhouse Rd. There is ample free parking in the Hall car park. Mindful of the environment and of fuel costs, several members arrange car shares to travel to events, and we are happy to facilitate these arrangements if this would help. If you come by train, the nearest railway station is Alton, about 2 miles away. Please let us know if you would like a lift from the station, and your arrival time, and we will arrange to pick you up and take you back after the event.
