Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks discuss the problems faced by Britain in the fifth century after the end of Roman rule. They also consider whether there was actua

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks are joined by author and Ian Mortimer, to discuss his new historical work, An A to Z of English History. Music by Adriel Fair li

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks re-visit some of their favourite Slice of Medieval episodes, including: Bernard Cornwell, JustinHill, Anne O'Brien and David Gilma

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks re-visit some of their favourite Slice of Medieval episodes, including: Bernard Cornwell, JustinHill, Anne O'Brien and David Gilma

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks are joined by author and podcaster, Matthew Harffy, to discuss the story behind his latest historical novel, Dominion of Dust whic

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks give their summer book recommendations along with guests: Kathryn Warner, Patricia Bracewell, Helen Castor, Scott Mariani, David P

Well, it's that time of year again and the usual preparations are under way. The lead-in to Christmas is already taking its toll on me. Yesterday I had my annual fight with the Christmas tree and this year the tree gave a much stronger showing than usual. Yes, I know it isn't a real tree, but that doesn't mean it can't still inflict pain. Worryingly, from my point of view, the damage was done in trying to prise the sodding tree out of the box. Even now, the day after, my shoulder is still feeling the effects of my epic trial of strength with that inanimate seasonal object.

Annabel Croft, broadcaster, former tennis player and Strictly Come Dancing contestant, is doing a national tour at the moment and last night we went to see her at our small theatre in Christchurch, the Regent. Run largely by volunteers, the Regent is a much-valued local entertainment centre and once hosted Ricky Gervais. And by the way, Ricky, you need to come back for a couple more shows, because last time all the tickets were snapped up online and locals didn't get a look-in. Anyway, back to Annabel. I'm neither a big tennis fan nor any longer a fan of Strictly, but I've always kind of liked Annabel.

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks are joined by historian, Lauren Johnson, to discuss the much-maligned Margaret Beaufort. Music by Adriel Fair licensed from Epid

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks discuss, with Sara Cockerill, the remarkable Queen Eleanor of Castile. Music by Adriel Fair licensed from Epidemic Sound

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks discuss Edward V and why he did not become king in 1483. Music by Adriel Fair licensed from Epidemic Sound

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks are joined by author, Angus Donald, to discuss the story behind his latest historical novel, Templar Traitor. Music by Adriel Fa

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks are joined by the Sheriff of Nottingham, Richard Townsley, to discuss the role of the medieval sheriff. Music by Adriel Fair lic

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical fiction author, Derek Birks discuss the succession problems of late Anglo-Saxon England and their effect on the events of 1066. Music by Adriel Fair licensed from Epidemic Sound

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks are joined by historian and writer, Catherine Hanley, to discuss the life of Joanna Plantagenet. Music by Adriel Fair licensed f

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks discuss the three powerful English Earls of the Eleventh Century, established by King Cnut: Godwin of Wessex, Leofric of Mercia an

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks are joined by historian and writer, David Pilling, to discuss the the Royal House of Wales. Music by Adriel Fair licensed from E

Did a Craft Fair at Lyndhurst yesterday - as I sometimes do. Sold some books, signed some and met some great people, including tourists from Belgium Denmark and Germany - among others probably. Even had my picture taken by Robin from Germany who bought a copy of Feud. Robin, if you ever read this, maybe you could send me a copy of the picture via my website contact page!

Well, I feel vindicated at last this morning because, apparently, I am definitely a grown-up. Many have questioned that in the past but not any more. Yes, Bluesky has verified that I am an adult. Which is good to know. They took a picture of my ancient, craggy face and it took barely a nanosecond for them to conclude that youth had abandoned me long ago.

Historian, Sharon Bennett Connolly and historical author, Derek Birks are joined by bestselling novelist, Scott Mariani, to discuss the Third Crusade and his new novel, Pilgrim's Revenge. Music by A

It's been a busy few weeks. My alter ego, Tom Hadley has been finalising the sequel to the thriller, Eyes Like Blades which went out to some beta readers last week. I've been editing podcasts, including one with best selling novelist, Scott Mariani. The podcasts available on Youtube seem to be gathering some momentum at the moment. The feed back from listeners has been great, So, many thanks for that.