History tours and talks to reveal county's past

Richard PriceWest Midlands
News imageStaffordshire County Council Hayley Coles, a woman wearing a floral top and a grey jacket, is standing next to a black carriage. In the background is a museum information board and a barrier to protect the carriage.Staffordshire County Council
Councillor Hayley Coles said the history centre was an important resource for the county

A series of tours and talks have been organised to reveal little-known aspects Staffordshire's history.

They will take place at, or set off from, Staffordshire History Centre in Stafford, with tours lasting about an hour and talks lasting about 15 minutes.

Themes for the walking tours would include crime and punishment, the town's connection to the monarchy and a look back at Stafford's industrial heritage, Staffordshire County Council said.

Meanwhile the spotlight talks would provide a brief look into "random pockets" of the county's history, the authority added – with topics such as vintage fashion and military history.

Hayley Coles, cabinet member for communities and culture, said the history centre was an important resource for the county.

"Our tours and talks are a fantastic way to find out about key aspects of our past," she said.

"When you think you know all there is to know about Staffordshire, these events show you there are so much still to learn."

The history centre is located on Eastgate Street in Stafford, and is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00-16:00.

It is free of charge to visit and includes a research room, educational spaces, historical collections and a variety of exhibitions throughout the year.

Both the walking tours and spotlight talks are designed for ages 12 and above, but special family-friendly walks were planned for 7 April and 29 May.

Events are either free or at low cost.

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