MARITIME history is the next subject in a series of talks being held this year.

The Maldon Society continues its 2019 programme of talks with a presentation from master mariner Karl Lumbers on Thursday, June 6.

His talk – The Trinity House Story – takes place in the Cygnet Room behind the Swan Hotel in Maldon High Street from 7.15pm.

A spokesman said: “This talk will be of great interest to our maritime community.

“Trinity House has three core functions.

“It is the official general lighthouse authority for England, Wales, the Channel Islands and Gibraltar, and is responsible for the provision and maintenance of navigational aids, such as lighthouses, light vessels, buoys and maritime radio or satellite communication systems.

“Trinity House is also an official deep-sea pilotage authority, providing expert navigators for ships trading in northern European waters, as well as a maritime charity dispensing funds for the welfare of retired seamen, the training of young cadets and the promotion of safety at sea.

“The corporation was founded in 1514 and its first Master was Sir Thomas Spert, sailing master of Henry VIII’s flagship Mary Rose and the warship Henri Grace a Dieu.

“The Princess Royal is the present Master of the Corporation.

“In 2014, the Royal Mint issued a two pound coin commemorating the 500th anniversary of the granting of Trinity House’s Royal Charter.”

Visitors can also hear about planning applications which are seeking approval in the town.

July’s talk is by Julian Harrap, who will introduce visitors to the culture and architectural conservation in Maldon.

For details, visit maldonsoc.org.