THE story and character of King John will be explored in an illustrated talk to be held in Brierley Hill next week.

King John: the worst or most useful king? will be presented by historian Max Keen at the Neighbourhood Learning Centre in Hill Street on Thursday (June 30).

The talk will be illustrated with period costume and a multi-media presentation.

Councillor Rachel Harris, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “In film and in school history books King John has always been the bad guy, but in this lively historical talk Max Keen asks whether John was a scheming, spineless tyrant or just a very misunderstood monarch.”

The talk starts at 7pm and tickets cost £5.

For more information or to book a place, call Simon Bradley on 01384 816440.