HISTORIAN and author Aine Collier is giving two talks on ancient Dorset in All Saints’ Church, Wyke Regis, over the coming weeks.

Dr Collier’s interest in local history goes back beyond 17th century Dorset and when she moved here, she started to investigate further. Walking the local coastal paths, past the hill forts, ancient churches, farms, disused quarries, and local villages, Dr Collier’s fascination with the local area led her deeper and deeper into the who, what and when of Weymouth and its neighbours’ past.

After five years of careful research, the result is From The Stone Age To King George III: The History Of Weymouth And Its Neighbours, which offers a fascinating look at the story of the community from ‘the beginning’.

The first talk, Multi-Cultural Weymouth: From The Durotriges To The Saxons, is all about our earliest residents and takes us through the fascinating and often perilous lives of those people. Anyone who is interested in the history of Dorset will enjoy this discussion, which will be held this Sunday at 3pm.

The second talk based on the book will offer a close up look at Weymouth And The New World: From Raleigh To Religion. This talk looks at the little-known history of Weymouth’s part in establishing the English presence in North America and will be on March 9, also at 3pm.

At both talks the All Saints Bell Ringers will provide extra entertainment and on March 9, well-known organist Duncan Honeybourne will play the organ. Refreshments will be available at both talks.

Copies of Dr Collier’s book From The Stone Age To King George III: The History Of Weymouth And Its Neighbours will be available to buy.

For more information, contact Julia Moore on 01305 776138.