Reconstructing the Story of the Rise and Fall of Donnington Castle
St Mary's Church Shaw cum Donnington, Church Road, Shaw, Newbury, Berkshire, RG142DR
See and hear anew the story of Donnington Castle from the day when it was built in the late 14th Century, during the reign of King Richard II, through to its capture and destruction by Parliament in the English Civil War, during the reign of King Charles I.
Fresh visual historical evidence presented publicly for the first time, followed by visit to the Gatehouse inaugurating new information panels prepared and installed by English Heritage at the Donnington Castle Opensite.
Speakers include:
Dr Steven Brindle, a distinguished architectural historian whose original researches include reconstructions of Bury St Edmunds Abbey, and the early development of Windsor Castle for the Royal Architectural Institute, and at this event a debut presentation reconstructing Donnington Castle as it was in its heyday, before its destruction during the English Civil War.
Dr David Peacock, a well known, distinguished speaker on the history of Newbury and its environs. Formerly a teacher of politics and history at Padworth College, Dr Peacock speaks on local history at Newbury College, Reading University, at other local venues, and also writes extensively through his numerous local history articles.
This event is a Community collaboration between St Mary's Church, local parishioners, students at Trinity Academy, Shaw-cum-Donnington Parish Council, with English Heritage, Newbury District Field Club, and Shaw House, West Berkshire Heritage.
St Mary's Church Shaw cum Donnington, Church Road, Shaw, Newbury, Berkshire, RG142DR
The outline timetable for the day is: The Story of Donnington Castle from the reign of King Richard II to King Charles I Lunch break approximately 1230 (45 mins ) Tea, Coffee and soft drinks available - donation to Myrtle Cafe appreciated. Facilities for own packed lunch. 1315 Sarah Somerville, Shaw House with local historic maps, 1345 Q & A with Guest speakers and English Heritage team 1430 Transfer to Gatehouse at Donnington Castle (own transport required) 1515 Inauguration of New Panels 16.00 Envoi