VOLUNTARY groups will soon be able to find out more about Sir William Turner and the Almshouses he founded at Kirkleatham.

The trustees of Sir William Turner's Almshouses are offering a speaker to groups interested in finding out about the site's history.

Peter Sotheran, who organises tours and talks about the almshouses, said: "The illustrated talk explains that the almshouses have never been a medical hospital but that the word is used in the old-fashioned sense, meaning a place that offers hospitality."

He said it would focus on the site's long history offering sheltered accommodation to retired people.

For 200 years, lasting until 1942, the hospital also provided a free school for children aged nine to 16.

Sir William lived through a turbulent period of English history in the 1600s, including the execution of King Charles I and the Great Fire of London.

He became Lord Mayor and was a friend of architect Sir Christopher Wren and diarist Samuel Pepys.

To arrange for a speaker or book a visit, write to the Chairman of the Trustees, 1 Sir William Turner's Court, Kirkleatham, Redcar TS10 4QT or leave a message on (01642) 482828.

Proceeds from the talks and visits are used for the benefit of the Almshouses.