Thursday 26th October 2027
Tales of the Dart Estuary
John Risdon
John Risdon was born in Brixham and has spent his life in Devon. In a varied career, John has worked in a timber yard, for the Admiralty, as a teacher, and in his own publishing business.
Throughout that time, John’s passion has been the history, geology, and geography of the Devon coastline and countryside. His guided walks and talks cover every aspect of Torbay, Dartmouth and the rolling hills of Dartmoor.
In this talk, John will regale us with Tales of The Dart Estuary!
He says, "I love my County and home of Galmpton, close by the Dart and waters of Torbay, with a quiet intensity, warts and all!
It retains a unique, ever-changing beauty with its world important heritage wrapped snugly within, waiting for the enquiring mind to delve deeper."
What hidden gems will he uncover - even for those who have also spent a lifetime in the area?
Join us to find out…
22nd November 2027
Life on South Georgia, 2017
Dr Fraser Gould – British Antarctic Survey Medical Unit
Fraser departed the UK towards the end of 2016, working as a Medical Officer for the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). This involved a 13-month position at King Edward Point Research Station, situated on the remote overseas territory of South Georgia. During the austral summer there were 35 personnel working on the island, but over the winter this number dropped down to just 10, whom together were tasked with providing continuous science and fisheries support to the South Georgia Government.
Following this post he joined the Royal Research Ship ‘Ernest Shackleton’ for a six-month voyage along the Antarctic coastline, with an itinerary designed to provide logistical support to the BAS research stations in the polar region.
But what exactly does a doctor do, having only to look after a small and healthy patient population? This talk aims to provide some answers to this very reasonable question, and touch upon some of the highlights and challenges encountered whilst living in a small island community. Expect snow, ice, boats and plenty of wildlife to feature.
Thursday 17th January 2028
From Trafalgar To The Falklands
A History of International Hospital Ships
Nicci Pugh
After training as a nurse in Exeter and St George’s, Nicci joined the Queen Alexandra’s Royal Naval Nursing Service and was selected to serve on board HM Hospital Ship Uganda as a Senior Nursing Officer during the Falklands War.
Following her experiences Nicci now works as a voluntary ambassador for The South Atlantic Medal Association (www.sama82.org.uk).
In this talk, Nicci explores the history and use of hospital ships to aid casualties of major conflicts including the Napoleonic, Crimean and the Falklands Wars.
Thursday 22nd February 2028
The Rowing Marine
Lee Spencer
Lee joined the Royal Marine Commandos in 1992. Following operational tours of Northern Ireland and Iraq, he qualified for special duties and undertook 3 tours of Afghanistan, often working in an undercover and covert role.
In 2014, Lee lost his right leg below the knee whilst providing assistance at a road traffic accident. Lee utilised his military training to save his own life by instructing a passer-by to apply a tourniquet. He was awarded the High Chief Constables award for his selfless actions on that night.
In 2015, Lee was one of a crew of four amputees who first rowed across the Atlantic and into the Guinness World Record books.
In January 2019, Lee set off from Portimao, Portugal to row solo and unsupported from mainland Europe to mainland South America. 60 days, 16 hours and 6 minutes later he rowed into Cayenne, French Guiana to become the first physically disabled person to do so. He also smashed the able bodied record by an astonishing 36 days!
As The Rowing Marine, Lee has raised money for The Royal Marines Charity and the Endeavour Fund.
A natural and engaging speaker, Lee’s incredible personal story will captivate and inspire.
Thursday 25th March 2028
Nelson's Doctors
Mr Ian Fraser
In 1794 Captain Horatio Nelson writing to his friend, The Duke of Clarence, declared “One plan I pursue, never to employ a Doctor…” but there are at least 48 references to him seeking medical help apart from the numerous informal chats concerning his ailments aboard ship.
Ian's talk will review the medical involvement in four of his mishaps
- his blind eye,
- the amputated arm,
- a head injury
- his death at Trafalgar
Ian will present some aspects of Nelson’s judgement and management skills in action.
In 1801, whilst moored in Torbay before the Battle of Copenhagen, he received the news which ultimately leads us to another naval surgeon hitherto largely ignored in the Nelson story.
All will be revealed on the night…
After qualifying at Barts in 1969, Ian abandoned an early career in Obstetrics and Gynaecology to take refuge in general surgery where he specialised in Colo-proctology as a consultant in Warwick.
In the summer he aims to be a fair-weather sailor but during the winter months gets embroiled in exploring Naval history, especially that of Admiral Nelson and his contemporaries.
Thursday 27th April 2028
TDMS Quiz Night
Following the success of our first Quiz Night, we will be repeating the event for our April meeting.
Entry will be £5 per person including a buffet, which will be available from 7:30pm, prior to an 8pm start.
The quiz will be a General Knowledge quiz - not a test of your medical knowledge - although there may be questions related to past talks given to the Society...!
Members are invited to form teams of up to 6 people to participate in the quiz.
If you do not have a team, or would like to top up with additonal team members, please let us know - or turn up on the night and we will make sure you are accommodated.
Please book your places in advance to help us manage the food requirements.