A FASCINATING lecture on the birth of mediaeval Scotland is set to take place in Alloa next week.

Clackmannanshire Field Studies Society will hear from Professor Richard Oram who will deliver his lecture Rethinking the Revolution – David I and the birth of Mediaeval Scotland on Monday, March 27.

David I, c1082-1153, is a fascinating historical figure who was not meant to be king as the youngest of six sons of King Malcolm Canmore and Queen Margaret.

He spent his adolescent years at the English court of his brother-in-law Henry I, where he was heavily influenced by the Anglo-Norman culture, audiences heading along will hear.

Through marriage to Maud, the daughter of the Earl of Northumbria, he acquired the earldom of Huntingdon before he was given the right to rule Cumbria, Strathclyde and part of Lothian by his brother Alexander I of Scotland.

When Alexander died, David – with the support of Henry I, seized the kingdom of Scotland, fighting off his rival and nephew Angus.

He would go on to become a powerful king, bringing about major changes to central and regional government.

Next year will see the 900th anniversary of his accession and the lecture is set to be a fitting introduction to the events which are being planned to commemorate his remarkable reign.

Professor Oram, who has an MA (Hons) in mediaeval history with archaeology and a PhD in mediaeval history from the University of St Andrews, will be speaking at Greenfield Hall on Erskine Street next Monday.

The lecture will start at 7.30pm and will be rounded off with refreshments.

Non-members looking to attend are welcome and can contact chair Susan Mills via susan.mills127@btinternet.com.