The fifth and last lecture in a series of winter talks which delve into a town’s rich history and heritage will take place next month.

Maldon District Council has hosted a series of five heritage winter talks each year since 2002.

The free talks are hugely popular with local history buffs and each focuses on a different aspect of local heritage or history.

The next talk is on Tuesday, March 3, at 7pm at the Friends Meeting House in Butt Lane, Maldon.

It will feature an in-depth discussion by special guest John Smith, who will look at the maps of Maldon from the 16th to 19th centuries.

A spokesman said: “Maps are a paramount resource for the study of ancient towns.

“This talk demonstrates how manuscript and printed maps, ranging in date from the 16th to 19th centuries, can be used to investigate and illustrate Maldon’s history and topography.

“Topics discussed include urban and rural boundaries, changing landscapes, housing developments, industrial buildings, property ownership, riparian activities and features, roads, and urban expansion.

“The talk also provides an opportunity to admire the draughtsmanship and skill of mapmakers long dead.”

The popular talks are open to anyone and are free to the public.

To find out more about the events, visit maldon.gov.uk.