Around thirty members of the village Local History Group and others heard a fascinating talk last night (Wednesday) at the VH about the Marchioness of Ripon, one of Victorian and Edwardian Britain's most lively aristocrats.

Local author and historian David Winpenny told the story of Gladys Herbert whose second husband the Earl de Grey lived at Studley Royal. He recounted how she made a name for herself as a great supporter of the arts, particularly opera and ballet. She is credited with reviving the fortunes of Covent Garden. She also played a major role during the First World War helping injured servicemen.

David also spoke about the other aspect of her reputation - the many affairs she had as she circulated among the aristocratic elite in the late 1900s and the early part of the 20th century.

There's more about local history and the Local History Group here