A talk exploring a violent episode in Dorset’s past will take place in Weymouth.

The National Trust South Dorset Association (NTSDA) is hosting a talk by retired education advisor and author Philip Browne, entitled “Sticks and Stones" - the killing of William Allen, 1850.

It will focus on the violent disturbance over the Corn Laws in Victorian Dorset which pitted landowners and farmers against the poor and those who supported Free Trade.

This tension culminated in the killing of 19-year-old William Allen by an irate farmer in 1850.

The subsequent manslaughter trial at the Shire Court unearthed a deep split in Dorset society and led to a verdict that many saw as a miscarriage of justice.

It will be taking place at 2.30pm on Tuesday, May 21 at St Aldhelm's Church Centre on Spa Road in Weymouth.

Tickets for NTSDA members cost £3 and £4 for non-members.

Booking in advance is not required.