‘Unfit to Plead’: The Troubled Life of Diana Bromley 1918-72 (History Talk)

In our second Curious Histories lecture, historian of post-war Britain, Dr Sara Hiorns, tells the disturbing story of Diana Bromley, the cultured and well-connected wife of a diplomat, whose life descended into psychosis and murder. After coming upon references to Diana Bromley by chance, Dr Hiorns has spent the past seven years piecing together a tale of extraordinary family secrets, imperial legacies, and the impact of mental illness on family and motherhood. In this fascinating public debut of her findings, she will explain how her meticulous research led her from Hollywood star Boris Karloff to Anna Leonowens, the inspiration for The King and I, then from Bletchley Park and the British diplomatic service to Broadmoor Hospital, via China, India, Iran and England's home counties.

St. John's church, by the floral clock in Hove, provides the handsome venue for the Curious Histories lecture series. All the events are free to attend, with a retiring collection for charity. Ample refreshment will be provided at our bijou donation bar, serving both alcoholic and soft drinks, which will take both cash and cards. Doors are at 7pm and the talk begins at approx. 7.30pm.

Please note that the lecture contains material and themes that may be unsuitable for under-14s.

FAQs

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

There are no formal restrictions, although please note the warning above about some of the talk's content.

What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?

On-street parking in the vicinity is relatively limited, but the following buses stop within a minute's walk of St. John's (Palmeira square stop): 1, 1A, 2, 5, 5A, 5B, 6, 21, 25, 46, 49. Hove railway station is approximately a 15 minute walk from the venue.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

No, we will have a list of names on the door.

Is my ticket transferrable?

Yes, you may transfer your ticket.

Is it okay if the name on my ticket or registration doesn't match the person who attends?

Yes, that's fine.

What refreshments will be available?

There will be a donation bar serving a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. It will take both cash and card payments.

Will latecomers be admitted?

The talk will begin at approx. 7.30pm, but there will be some seats reserved for latecomers at the rear.