On Friday 21st February, Retford Men’s Probus Club welcomed a familiar face, Bryan Gladstone, who delivered a fascinating talk entitled ‘Brit Nazi 5th Column’. He outlined the threat from within during World War II, drawing on information released by MI5 in 2000 about spies and agents active in Britain around May 1940. Well-known wartime warnings such as ‘Careless talk costs lives’ and ‘Walls have ears’ were referenced, and the talk held members’ attention throughout, clarifying many previously held thoughts and ideas.
The next meeting on Friday 7th March saw a reasonable turnout, including the addition of new members. The speaker was a retired high-ranking police officer who shared insights into his career, from joining as a cadet to rising through the ranks to become a Detective Chief Inspector in Doncaster and South Yorkshire. His talk covered policing from the early 1960s to the mid-1990s, detailing the significant changes over time. He recalled patrolling the streets with only a whistle, handcuffs, and a truncheon – no radios or mobile phones in those days. Given the depth of his experiences, it was decided to invite him back for another session in the future.
Another successful event for Retford Men’s Probus Club, with thanks to the organising committee.