The Society was founded in 1968 after one of the towns medieval houses had been demolished and redeveloped. It is now an amenity society registered with the Civic Trust as a charity and managed by a committee elected annually.

It publishes a programme of monthly meetings with guest speakers plus visits to places of interest. It organises guided walks and the town's contribution to National Heritage open days.

It publishes the Bulletin, and academic journal, twice per annum on matters of local interest; a Newsletter of current local interest three times per annum; Illustrated Town Trails covering (1) the historic old town and (2) the 19th and 20th century developments.

The Society provides a professional team to inspect and comment on local planning applications submitted to the Town Council.

For further information:

Contact: Dr C.J.V. Wheatley

Tel: 01342 321525