AN annual conference which focuses on the history of the Mortimers will be held in Leominster.

This year the Mortimer History Society is holding its conference at Leominster Priory – an apt location as the theme is Religion and Faith in the time of the Mortimers.

Aiming to foster interest in the medieval Mortimer family of Wigmore and the history of the Welsh Marches, the society has established a reputation as the leading society on medieval history in the region and is growing rapidly with membership across the world.

In addition to its programme of conferences, lectures and study trips, the society runs an annual essay prize with the winning essays published in its Journal, as well as organising a local history course on the Mortimers and medieval life with twelve primary schools in north Herefordshire and Ludlow.

The Mortimers, who came to England soon after the Norman conquest of 1066, established a dynasty of powerful lords that lasted for more than 350 years.

Based in their castle at Wigmore in north Herefordshire, they rose to be one of the most powerful families in the land with vast estates in England, Wales and Ireland.

For many years they were at the centre of national life, with one Mortimer forcing the king to abdicate. They married into the royal family coming close to the succession to the throne, before a Mortimer grandson won the throne in battle and was crowned Edward IV.

Although at the heart of political and military life, the Mortimers also built many churches in Herefordshire and were patrons of clerics such as Adam of Orleton, Bishop of Hereford.

This conference will explore aspects of faith and religious life in the medieval period.

The conference is on Saturday, May 19 from 10am to 4.30pm. Members £17.50; non-Members £22.50; Lunch (which must be pre-booked) £10. Book a place online at www.mortimerhistorysociety.org.uk or call 01584 831654.