THE guest speaker at Sully U3A's September meeting was Dean Powell. He is a guest speaker, journalist, author, broadcaster and vocalist. His prolific workload varies from presenting high-profile engagements in some of the world's largest concert halls to lecturing on the life of Welsh radical, Dr William Price, of whom he is considered the leading expert. Dean gave an enthralling account of William Price's life from his birth in 1800 to his death at the age of 92. William Price trained as a doctor studying at the London Hospital and becoming a member of the Royal College of Surgeons at the age of 21. He supported Welsh nationalism, wanted to build a Museum of Welsh Life, supported Chartism and was involved with the Druid religion. His achievements were many and various including creating Wales's first co-operative and performing a successful Caesarean operation on Francis Crawshay's wife.

Dean said despite his remarkable and colourful life and many achievements, William Price is remembered for the landmark court case that led to the Cremation Act in 1902. Dr Price's son had died aged 5 months. The Cremation Society had tried to get an act through Parliament but the Church of England would not allow it. Despite this Dr Price cremated his son and was arrested. He stood trial at the Cardiff Assizes in 1884 where he defended himself and was acquitted. The Cremation Act was eventually passed in 1902 and the first cremation in Wales took place in 1920. This all came too late for Dr Price who upon his death wanted to be cremated. A cremation was allowed as long as it was part of a Christian service and true to form Dr Price had instructed his wife to sell tickets and over 20,000 turned up!

Chairman Jean Bispham thanked Dean for such an entertaining talk and he took questions over tea.

The next meeting will be held at The Old School, Sully at 2 p.m. on 9 October when Elizabeth Sweeney, European Parliament Information Officer in the UK will talk on "Brussels, Europe - What's it all about?". New members are always welcome.