AN illustrated talk on the history of Punch and Judy launched Honiton History Society s 2010 programme.

AN illustrated talk on the history of Punch and Judy launched Honiton History Society's 2010 programme.

"We had fantastic feedback and, needless to say, Mr Punch got his just desserts and the crocodile got his sausages!" said programme secretary Linda Shand.

Miss Shand is keen to see some new faces at future events, held at 7.30pm on the last Thursday of the month in Honiton Methodist Church, Chapel Street.

Derek Gore, a teaching fellow in the archaeology department at Exeter University, is the guest speaker tomorrow (May 27).

He will explain what life was like in East Devon and Exeter during the Roman period.

The Devon History Society recently honoured its Honiton counterpart - by celebrating its 40th anniversary in the town.

Honiton was chosen because it hosted the Devon society's first ever meeting. "It was a well-attended event," said Miss Shand.

"Mark Farry gave a fascinating talk on a survey of all the hill forts in the area."

Mr Farry is a landscape archaeologist and spoke of the connection between the hill forts.

Mary Wardell, a world expert on lace, also spoke at the meeting.

A lunch was served before those present visited Allhallows Museum to see its collection of lace.

The event ended with the serving of tea and cakes.

Miss Shand is excited about this year's programme of talks.

"There is a really good mix," she said.

Details are always available from Honiton Library or the noticeboard at Honiton Methodist Church.

Visitors are welcome to attend meetings, to get a taste of what the society is all about, for a fee of �2.

l Further information is available from Miss Shand on (01404) 43953.