Why public speaking? What is debate?

Anybody who knows me is aware of my passion for speech and debate. I am a member of, or associated with, a number of very fine organisations, links to which are listed below.

Association of Speakers Clubs (ASC)

I recommend you to join a speakers club, if there is one convenient for you. ASC is an organisation of over 100 clubs throughout Great Britain. Its promise is that this is the place where you become a “better speaker; better presenter; and better leader” – and it works!
www.speakersclubs.uk

Society of Cogers

Founded in 1755 in the City of London, the Cogers rightfully claim to be “the first free speech society in the world”. The aims are both political and educational. Every person attending the regular monthly meeting has the opportunity to speak and discuss for several minutes any item of news from the last month (….. and why not start a Cogers club if there is not one locally?).
http://www.cogers.org

Sylvan Debating Club

Young by comparison with the Cogers (it was founded in 1868), the Sylvans are a traditional debating society, based in London and meeting monthly. As well as the Proposer and Opposer of the Motion (which is normally both topical and important), all attending are invited to speak for up to 5 minutes.
http://www.sylvans.org.uk

College of Public Speaking

If you are considering paying for speaking training, I strongly recommend the London-based College of Public Speaking – partly because of my own involvement in its foundation but mainly because of its high standard of tuition both in its ‘speaking’and its ‘train the trainer’ courses.
http://www.collegeofpublicspeaking.co.uk

Debating London

Founded in London by recent graduate Tony Koutsoumbos less than 10 years ago, ‘Debating London’ is strongly expanding both through holding debates and also (almost uniquely) through excellent debating training. It is warmly recommended.
http://www.debate-training.co.uk
http://www.debatinglondon.com

Although not specifically related to speaking, you may also be interested in University of the Third Age, which is an excellent, nationwide organisation which offers those who have reached around 55, or who are retired, the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics.

University of the Third Age

U3As are intended for persons aged, say, 50 or 55 to very much older. Their popularity has grown rapidly, and there are now 1000 U3As in Great Britain, as well as in some other countries. They offer a very wide range of activities, both social and educational. No older person need ever be bored again! Click to find your local U3A.
https://www.u3a.org.uk/

If you too are interested in publishing your memoirs or any other written work, then you may want to contact Filament Publishing, who have provided me with an excellent service and very welcome advice in the area of self-publishing.

Filament Publishing

Filament Publishing, founded and led by Chris Day, offers both existing and aspiring authors a full range of writing, publishing and marketing help. I for one can certainly recommend contacting Filament!
www.filamentpublishing.com