The Man Who Didn’t Succeed

David Beardsley

Regions:: Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire
Notice Period:: Emergency (maybe less than one week's notice)
Type:: Professional
Fee:: Paid: £60-£70
Category:: History
Updated:: 30^th September 2025
Tagged:: 20Th Century History

John Bankes (1937-1996) should have inherited the Bankes Estate I.e. Kingston Lacy, Corfe Castle, and 16000 acres of estate. But it went to the National Trust. Why? David tells John’s sad and intriguing story.

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About David Beardsley

Read modern languages. Taught in France and England. Public servant in education field. In retirement worked as researcher for Dorset History Centre, outreach worker for Russel-Cotes Museum and Art Gallery and guide at Kingston Lacy. Published in 2025 successful biography of John Bankes of Kingston Lacy ‘The Man Who Didn’t Succeed’. Experienced public speaker - 200 talks over last 10 years to a variety of organisations, some in French.

Other Talks on SpeakerNet by David Beardsley

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