An internationally renowned archaeologist best known for the popular BBC series Two Men in a Trench is to speak at the University of Aberdeen.
Tony Pollard, whose hunt for military artefacts with co-presenter Neil Oliver proved a hit with viewers, is to give a free talk on Monday November 9.
The event, arranged by the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, Aberdeen and North East Section, will focus on Scotland’s historic battlefields.
Dr Pollard, Director of the Centre for Battlefield Archaeology at the University of Glasgow, is at the forefront of battlefield archaeology and research in Scotland.
His latest work has focussed on a major re-evaluation of Culloden which has had a significant impact on interpretations of that crucial battle in Britain’s history.
Dr Pollard has written numerous papers and articles on archaeology and military history and edited several books on subjects as diverse as the early prehistory of Scotland and the archaeology of death.
Along with Neil Oliver he has also produced two successful books to accompany the Two Men in a Trench programmes.
In his talk, he will present the results of his latest and ongoing research on Scotland’s historic battlefields, many of which can be found in the North-east including Culloden and Harlaw.
Landscapes of Loss: the archaeology of Scotland's battlefields forms part of the University of Aberdeen’s museum lecture programme, which brings together a diverse range of speakers to provide regular public events.
Chris Croly, Chairman of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, Aberdeen and North East Section, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about the latest research in this truly exciting field of research.
“This is the first in the Society of Antiquaries lecture series for the 2009-2010 year, which features a great programme of lectures. This will be a really popular talk and I urge people to arrive early to avoid disappointment.”
Neil Curtis, Senior Curator, Marischal Museum, University of Aberdeen and Secretary of the North-East Section said: “Archaeology is becoming increasingly popular and we are delighted to welcome Tony Pollard to Aberdeen.
“His series Two Men in a Trench helped to engage the wider public with battlefield history and his knowledge of the subject is remarkable.
“The public lecture will provide an opportunity for people to hear more about Scottish sites of interest and how they are helping to shape our understanding of the past.”
Landscapes of Loss: the archaeology of Scotland's battlefields will take place on Monday, Novermber 9 at 7.30pm in the Regent Building lecture theatre, King’s College, University of Aberdeen.
Entry is free and advance booking is not required. For more details visit http://www.abdn.ac.uk/marischal_museum/lectures.shtml