A public lecture in Dundee this evening by TV genealogist Dr Nick Barratt could be the spark needed to get people researching their own family histories, Dundee University is hoping.
Experts from its Centre for Archive and Information Studies (CAIS) will be setting up a stand outside the lecture to offer information about courses its runs.
These include an online masters degree and postgraduate certificates in family and local history, along with short introductory courses.
Centre spokeswoman Caroline Brown said, “These exciting online courses will equip you with the skills and methods to investigate your own family and neighbourhood’s history and introduce you to a range of primary sources as well as teaching you to read old handwriting.
“There has been a real growth in interest in family and social history in recent years, and a lot of people want to know how they can go about finding out more about the past but might not necessarily know how to go about it.
“The MLItt, and other courses offered by CAIS, allow them to do this whilst obtaining a new qualification. Hopefully people will come and find more, and take in Nick Barratt’s fascinating lecture.”
Dr Barratt, who appeared in the popular BBC show Who Do You Think You Are?, will be giving a free lecture at the university’s Dalhousie Building, off Hawkhill, at 6pm on Saturday.
Free places can be reserved at www.dundee.ac.uk/tickets or by calling 01382 385564.To read a full interview with Dr Barratt, click here.