Clergyman to lead Peterborough Cathedral history course

History buffs have been invited to explore the life and times of Peterborough Cathedral

History buffs have been invited to explore the life and times of a cathedral.

A clergyman will lead a six-week course exploring Peterborough Cathedral's history at a cost of £70 per person.

Details of the "informative and engaging" six-week course have been advertised on the cathedral's website.

A note says Canon Tim Alban Jones will lead students on a "captivating journey" from the earliest times to the present day.

Canon Tim Alban Jones was previously Vicar of Soham

"This engaging course offers a unique opportunity for adult learners to unravel the mysteries and marvels hidden within the cathedral's walls," says the note.

"Take advantage of opportunities to explore and study the cathedral's art, architecture, and artefacts up close.

"Gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and history preserved within its walls."

A cathedral history in brief

• Peterborough Cathedral dates back to 1118, according to the Eastern Cathedrals website

• The first abbey was established at Peterborough (originally called Medeshamstede) in 655 AD and largely destroyed by Viking raiders in 870

• The present building was begun in 1118, consecrated in 1238 and its structure remains essentially as it was on completion

• Two queens were buried in the cathedral during the Tudor period. Katherine of Aragon's grave is in the North Aisle near the High Altar, whilst Mary Queen of Scots was buried on the opposite side of the altar, though her grave is now empty (she was re-buried in Westminster in 1612)

The course is due to run between 16 April and 21 May.

Canon Alban Jones became a high-profile figure two decades ago when 10-year-old Holly Wells and Jessica Chapman were murdered in Soham, Cambridgeshire, by school caretaker Ian Huntley.

He was the vicar of St Andrew's Church, Soham, when the two girls died and was made an MBE in the 2003 New Year's Honours.

He left Soham in 2015.