A PROGRAMME of 'learn and lunch' talks is now on offer at Worcestershire County Museum at Hartlebury Castle.

This year's schedule includes a chance to see the conservation work on the Bredon Hill Roman coin hoard and to discover more about the lives of the Bishops that have lived at Hartlebury Castle.

Rachel Robinson, museum manager, said: “We are really pleased to be able to offer a new selection of ‘learn and lunch’ talks which provide some unique opportunities to learn about subjects related to the castle and museum, meet some liked-minded people and enjoy a great day out.”

The first talk titled 'Conserving the Bredon Hill coin hoard' will take place Wednesday, April 22, at 11am. Archaeology curator Deborah Fox will explain the fascinating story of the discovery of the hoard and the work Museums Worcestershire is now doing to conserve these rare coins.

Participants will also be able to see some of the coins close up and watch museum volunteers as they go about the delicate conservation work.

The Bredon Hill coin hoard was discovered in 2011 when two metal detectorists uncovered 3,874 Roman coins, the largest ever find in Worcestershire. It is believed the hoard was buried in the remains of a previously unknown Roman settlement, nearly a century after it was accumulated.

Museums Worcestershire raised the funds to acquire the hoard in 2012 and now it is displayed at the County Museum in Hartlebury Castle, where volunteers have begun a programme of work to clean and stabilise the coins.

The rest of the museum's ‘learn and lunch’ programme includes 'A Bishop and His Books' on Wednesday, May 13, and 'From Hartlebury to Heaven' on Thursday, June 4.

Tickets, which cost £16 including a homemade lunch and access to the museum, can be purchased by calling 01299 250416.