Renowned historian Dr David Starkey and economist Mark Littlewood will appear together at the Bournemouth Pavilion next year in an event organised by the 1832 Club, a local business networking group for small and medium-sized enterprise (SME).

Taking place on Monday, 12 January, the event will offer Dorset’s business community a rare opportunity to hear national-level debate delivered live on home turf, with the speakers tackling themes such as political reform, economic resilience, and the state of British democracy.

With Bournemouth now recognised as one of the UK’s fastest-growing coastal hubs for SMEs, hospitality, and digital enterprise, organisers say the event underlines the region’s growing importance in national political and economic conversations.

Rob Dore, a representative of the 1832 Club, said: “Bringing Dr David Starkey and Mark Littlewood to Bournemouth reflects exactly what the 1832 Club is about and takes serious national debate out of London and into the communities where real businesses operate and real people live.”

Mr Dore added: “Bournemouth has one of the most energetic and entrepreneurial SME sectors in the UK. These businesses deserve to be part of the national conversation on political reform, and hosting events like this ensures their voices are not sidelined.”

“Dr David Starkey brings historical depth, Mark Littlewood brings economic clarity, and Bournemouth brings the audience that truly understands the pressures of modern Britain. It’s the perfect combination.”

The evening will include keynote talks, conversation between the speakers, and an opportunity for attendees to put questions to both guests.