MICHAEL Kenning will give a talk on Jane Austen at the next North Waltham, Steventon, Ashe and Deane History Society meeting.

The talk, titled Steventon – the cradle of Jane Austen’s genius, will focus on the 25 years the author lived in the village and how they formed the background to her writing.

It will take place on January 17 at 8pm, at North Waltham School Hall, Steventon Road.

Tickets cost £2 per person for visitors, which includes coffee, biscuits and the chance to engage with the speaker. Students can go for free.