Stirring Tales of Nautical Derring-do

There was a humorous start to Max Keen’s talk to the Vale of Evesham Historical Society at their March meeting. Max turned up dressed as Napoleon, for a talk about the life of Lord Nelson!

He soon stripped off his outer layers, however, and proceeded with his talk in the garb of an ordinary seaman of the time.

In a lavishly illustrated presentation, he followed Nelson’s glittering career from his birth in a Norfolk vicarage, via his first great naval triumph at the Battle of Cape St Vincent, to his death on the deck of the Victory in October 1805.

Max’s infectious enthusiasm for his subject held the audience spellbound, his description of the fighting at Trafalgar being particularly thrilling. (For more information about Max and his talks, visit his website www.keenhistorytalks.com)

Historical Society Chairman, John Kyte, speaking earlier in the evening, said that in addition to current and future WWI displays, the Society would shortly be mounting exhibitions commemorating the Battle of Evesham.

The Vale of Evesham Historical Society holds a programme of talks on various historical and archaeological topics over the winter. Members also meet regularly at the Almonry on Thursday evenings for informal discussions on displays, publications etc. At their April talk, Mike Napthan will be describing archaeological work at Worcester Castle. For more information visit the Society’s website: www.valeofeveshamhistory.org

GERRY HARTE