The Bolton branch of the Manchester & Lancashire Family History Society (MLFHS) (http://www.mlfhs.org.uk/Bolton/) will hold its next meeting at 7.30pm on Wednesday April 2nd. Dr Alan Crosby will be talking about the 1834 Poor Law Reforms: "after 230 years the new system was designed to be a deterrent aimed at making the Workhouse so unpleasant that people would do anything to avoid going there". The talk explains the details of why it gained its evil reputation and how local Lancashire officials did their best to avoid its implementation. The venue as usual is Bolton Cricket Club, Green Lane, BL1 5RH, Farnworth. All are welcome and a Help Desk available for private research afterwards.. Enquiries to Secretary Barbara Owen on 01204 309515.