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Your chance to learn more about the fascinating history of Great Yarmouth

People have the opportunity to discover more about the borough's fascinating history at a new series of winter talks offered by Great Yarmouth Heritage Guides.

A previous heritage guides talk at the Town Hall in Great Yarmouth

The one-hour talks will take place at 1pm on the second Tuesday of October, November, December, January, February and March at the Town Hall in Great Yarmouth. Each talk costs £5.50 per person to attend and includes a hot drink on arrival and the chance to ask questions at the end.

At the first session, on October 14, people will be able to find out about Pablo Fanque and the Victorian Circus. Pablo Fanque was the first recognised black circus proprietor in Britain and was born in Norwich.

The November talk, entitled 'Behind the Screens - Amphibious Tanks of Fritton Lake and D-Day', takes place on November 11. Guests will be able to find out about Fritton Lake's involvement in the Second World War when the Armoured Division requisitioned it for the training of crews to operate Duplex Drive Tanks.

The December talk, 'Ghost Stories of Great Yarmouth', takes place on December 9 and reveals how it was traditional for gatherings at Christmas to tell ghost stories.

Talks taking place early next year include 'Growing Up in Southtown' on January 13, 'Arthur Nelson: The Clown King' on February 10 and 'Hopping Around Hopton' on March 10.

Booking is essential for all the talks at www.heritage-walks.co.uk with booking closing 48 hours ahead of each session.

Ruth Cockrill, Great Yarmouth Borough Council's marketing and events officer, said: ''Our borough is blessed with an amazingly rich history and we are lucky to have an excellent team of heritage guides who are able to share their knowledge with residents.

''These latest series of talks promise to offer a fascinating glimpse into our past and we're sure those who attend will enjoy these events in the wonderful setting of the historic Town Hall.''

Last modified on 05 September 2025

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