HISTORY fans can explore the past during a series of talks taking place at the borough's new archives and local history centre.

The new centre, in Tipton Road, Dudley, will be hosting a programme of monthly history talks throughout the year - starting on Thursday February 6 when Brian Draper MBE will be talking about the hidden gems of historic Ironbridge and Coalbrookdale, Shropshire.

Councillor Stuart Turner, Dudley's cabinet member for libraries and archives, said: “There are some really interesting local history talks planned for the coming months and they provide a great opportunity to understand more about the history of our surrounding areas.

"The history talks are also a great way to get acquainted with the services that our new archives centre offers and find out about local and family history.”

Organised by the Friends of Dudley archives and local history service, the starts at 7.30pm and admission is free for members of the group - or £1.50 for non-members.

Call 01384 812770 for more information.