19/05/2026
Boudica: Myth and Legend - a talk by local Roman historian Richard Bale which promises to be both informative and entertaining. It will take place on the evening of Friday 29 May 2026 at the Old Church at 7pm.
Doors open at 6.30pm and there are free refreshments and plenty of free parking. As usual everyone is welcome and donations on the night (cash or card) will be gratefully received.
Boudica or Boadicea - a woman with a name that has become a symbol of resistance against stronger forces. Her story was popularised in the Victorian period due to its translation to "Victoria". It appears to be based on solid classical texts, and supported by archaeological evidence. But how much is true and how much later embellishment? Taking each element, the talk will take a fresh look at the evidence and attempt to identify what are facts, myths or even legends!
Richard Bale is an independent researcher and presenter, with a lifelong interest in the Romans. He read Roman History and Archaeology at the University of Nottingham and spent 15 years as a volunteer digging on Roman sites in Kent, Essex and the City of London. He is a regular speaker at the Roman Circus Visitor Centre, Colchester, and presented at the Colchester Roman Festival; the Festival of Essex Archaeology and Heritage and the Reconnecting Roman Britain Conference. Richard is a member of both The Roman Society, and The Association for Roman Archaeology. Richard is also the Rayne Heritage Advisor, designing the Rayne Heritage Website and Heritage Trail. In this capacity he appeared as the local historian in an edition of the tv programme “Celebrity Help My House Is Haunted!”.
