THE group was delighted to welcome a bumper audience to their talk on the Monmouth Rebellion.

An account was given of the ‘Pitchfork Rebellion’ when James Scott, 1st Duke of Monmouth and illegitimate son of Charles II, attempted to overthrow King James II.

After Monmouth’s army was defeated on July 6, 1685, many of his supporters were tried during the Bloody Assizes led by Judge Jeffreys and condemned to death or transportation.

Monmouth was executed for treason on July 15, 1685, when it is said it took several blows of the axe to sever his head.

Speaker John Allen focused on the characters, battle, bloody aftermath, myths and legends surrounding the rebellion, one of the most famous chapters in the West Country’s history.

Members will be visiting Sedgemoor Battlefield, the site of Monmouth’s final defeat, on June 9 and others are welcome to join. To book a place or for more information contact Roy Davies on 01460-239803.

The next meeting is on Friday, April 10, at 7.30pm at Manor Court School, Chard, when members will hear more about the personalities, commanders and events of the Waterloo Campaign of 1815.

Everyone is welcome.