THREE history experts are lifting the lid on the Norman Conquest as part of Chepstow Castle’s 950th anniversary celebrations.

Chepstow Museum has arranged a programme of talks to present the latest thinking and research into William the Conqueror’s invasion and its aftermath, and the exploits of the man credited with founding Chepstow Castle, William FitzOsbern.

It was the first stone castle in Britain, and was started in 1067 just a year after the Battle of Hastings.

The next talk at the Drill Hall is tomorrow (Thursday, July 13) by James Aitcheson, a historian who is making his mark in the world of historical fiction.

The four novels that he has had published are set in the aftermath of the Battle of Hastings and the years immediately following the Norman Conquest.

In “Resistance and retribution: the aftermath of 1066” he will speak about the years of rebellion and subjugation that followed 1066 and the role played by William FitzOsbern in the events.

He will also discuss the challenges and rewards of researching and writing fiction set during the Norman Conquest.

The first talk took place last Wednesday (July 5) when historian, author and TV presenter Marc Morris spoke about “The Norman Conquest – Why Did It Matter?”

He looked at the replacement of the ruling elite of Anglo-Saxon England, the revolution in architecture, and the introduction of new attitudes towards human life.

The final talk on Wednesday, July 26, will be by Rick Turner, former Inspector of Ancient Monuments for Cadw with responsibility for Chepstow Castle.

In “1067 and All That: The Life and Castles of William FitzOsbern” he will look at the first and perhaps greatest of the lords of Chepstow and talk about what is known of his life.

Talks take place at 7.30pm, and tickets are available from Chepstow Museum or by ringing 01291 625981.