THE English Civil War in Exeter and the Lower Exe Valley is the subject of “Conflict and Calamity”, a talk by Mark Stoyle, history professor at Southampton University, which will take place on Friday, March 23 at Brampford Speke Village Hall.

Mark, who lives locally, makes regular radio and TV appearances, including the recent episode of BBC’s Who Do You Think You Are? when cockney actor Danny Dyer discovered he was related to two English kings and Thomas Cromwell.

Mark, who specialises in the Civil War, said: “The English Civil War of 1642-46 was one of the most bloody and destructive episodes which this country has ever seen.

“Devon was among the most bitterly contested areas and, as the rival armies of King Charles I and his enemies in Parliament marched and counter-marched across the county, local men, women and children saw their lives being turned upside down.”

Mark’s talk will explore how the parishes of the lower Exe Valley – including Upton Pyne, Stoke Canon and Newton St Cyres - were affected by the conflict and how the great siege of Exeter in 1645-46 led to large parts of the city being razed to the ground.

The event is being organised by Brampford Speke Twinning Association for their funds.

Tickets cost £10, to include supper and are available from Pat Brazil (01392 841475) or Linda Findlay (01392 841402).