The swing riots – With a local focus
Speaker: Dr David Peacock
Monday 29th September 2025
(Doors open from 7:00pm)
The Swing Riots were an outburst of revolt by
agricultural workers in England in 1830, with West
Berkshire among many areas affected. From farm
to farm, they smashed threshing machines and
demanded food and an increase in wages. Dr
Peacock looks briefly at the causes of the riots and
relates events to the local area.
David Peacock researches, writes and gives talks
about the history of the Newbury area from the
Stone Age to the present day. He is the author of
The Story of Newbury (2011) and Newbury Roman
Cemetery (2018). He teaches local history classes
and present talks to many clubs and societies.
Bradfield Cricket Club Pavilion,
Heath Road, Bradfield Southend, RG7 6HH
(Car Parking Available)
There is no entry fee, but a donation of £4 per person towards expenses would be appreciated. No advance booking required.
Organised by Professor Martin Parsons, Dorcas Ward, Bob Lyon, Chris Curry, Barnaby Bucknall and Gordon Patterson. For further information, contact Gordon on 07764 476361 or gnpatterson@btconnect.com
