Onwards and Upwards: A Heartening Start to the Year

What a wonderful way to begin a new year of BristolRead Books events — in the company of two thoughtful, engaged audiences who reminded me exactly why I care so much about telling this story.

January took me first to Westbury Park WI, where I had the pleasure of sharing the story behind Ladies’ Mile and the remarkable legacy woven into that small stretch of the Downs. It was a warm and lively evening, full of curiosity and generous conversation. Afterwards, I was touched to receive this message:

“Our ladies certainly enjoyed your talk and appreciated all the research you have done into this little piece of Bristol's history.”

That phrase — “this little piece of Bristol’s history” — perfectly captures the heart of the project. Ladies’ Mile may seem modest in scale, but its story connects philanthropy, social reform, women’s safety, and civic pride in a way that still resonates today.

Soon after, I visited St Andrews Ladies’ Group, where the welcome was equally warm and the discussion wonderfully searching. Their feedback was deeply encouraging:

“Thank you very much for presenting your talk last night. All the feedback I have had so far has been very positive, I think everyone very much enjoyed the evening. I was interested in Victoria’s story but also found the background to the preservation of the Downs very interesting. Although I have lived in Bristol and the surrounding area for over 30 years I had never heard that historical background set out. I hope your campaign to preserve the toilets continues onwards and upwards!”

I was especially struck by that reflection — that someone who has lived in Bristol for over 30 years had never heard the historical background to the preservation of the Downs laid out in this way. It reinforces my belief that our local history still holds stories waiting to be rediscovered — stories that deepen our understanding of the places we walk past every day.

These early talks of 2026 have set an uplifting tone for the months ahead. I remain enormously grateful to the groups who invite me, to the audiences who listen so attentively, and to everyone who continues to support the campaign through book purchases and invitations to speak.

If your organisation, society or group would be interested in hosting a Ladies’ Mile talk, I would be delighted to hear from you. There is something very special about sharing Bristol’s history in a room full of people who care about it — and judging by these first two events of the year, the story continues to travel well.
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Onwards and upwards indeed.