THE FIRST wife of Thomas Hardy will be remembered 100 years after her death.

The Thomas Hardy Society is holding a commemorative weekend at the writer’s former home at Max Gate to celebrate the relationship between Emma Hardy and her husband.

A number of talks will be held on Saturday, November 24, with speakers including Philip Mallet, Andrew Norman, former Max Gate custodian Marilyn Leah and chairman of the Hardy Society Tony Fincham.

The following day the Chalk Stream Writers from Stratton will be reading some of their original poetry on Hardy and local musicians Barry Ferguson and Abbi Temple will perform Hardy poetry to music.

Secretary of the Hardy Society Mike Nixon said: “Emma had a massive influence on Hardy, they were married for 38 years, and it is only fitting that this weekend will look again at their relationship.”

For more details about the weekend or to book tickets call 01305 251501 or 01305 837331. A full programme is also available at hardysociety.org