THE illustrious Professor David Briggs, a retired research scientist of Malvern was our guest speaker this week. The subject of his presentation was Gilbert Briggs who had founded Wharfedale Wireless Works in Yorkshire in 1932. Gilbert was the leading figure in the creation of High Fidelity loudspeakers at a time when Britain was at the forefront of radio, audio and television development.

David Briggs told us that when he retired he decided to investigate the family connection with Gilbert and discovered that he was a cousin. Thus began a long, tortuous and fascinating journey through family recollections, company records, word of mouth and incredible coincidences. He found that Gilbert was a truly remarkable man who had developed many lasting friendships and who travelled widely. His love of music lead him to work on sound systems and eventually to loudspeakers.

Having established that there weren’t any reference books on loudspeakers, Gilbert decided to write one, and in fact then wrote many famous follow up books. In fact Wharfedale continues to be a name known to this day as a leading manufacturer of high quality loudspeakers.

In recounting his research, David explained what he had to do to unearth all the relevant facts and figures. He described the effort and time he had taken to record all the information in a form that enabled him to write a book about his cousin’s achievements. David’s book, entitled ‘A Pair of Wharfedales’ is available through all the usual outlets.

Following questions, Andy Richardson thanked David for a wonderfully entertaining history of Wharfedale loudspeakers.

Our last meeting of the year takes place on December 15 when our wives, partners and guests will join us for lunch. Our committee members have been charged with entertaining us. That should raise a laugh.

CHRIS DONOUGH