A BOOKLET marking the 500th anniversary of a royal visit will be launched today.

Margaret Tudor, daughter to Henry VII, stopped off in Newcastle on July 25, 1503, on her way to Edinburgh to marry James IV.

The wedding led to the unification of the Scottish and English crowns 100 years later, when Margaret's great-grandson, James VI, became monarch of both countries.

During the lavish visit, she stayed at the Augustinian Friary, where the Holy Jesus Hospital now stands.

Historian Peter Fryer will launch his booklet, Margaret Tudor - Queen of Scotland, at Newcastle Civic Centre.

He said: "Queen Margaret played an important role in the history of England and Scotland and I think her story, at times tragic, is well worth recalling, particularly in this area, where so many of the events occurred."

For a copy of the £2 booklet, helping St George's Church, Jesmond, call 0191-281 9060.