LAPTOPS and mice were banished to the bin when ancient handwriting techniques were brought back from the past to the Faithful City.

Palaeography for Beginners helped history lovers to revel in Worcester's rich and illustrious past this week, the first of a series of free activities throughout May.

Learning the art of calligraphy and ancient penmanship is just part of the celebrations organised in Local History Month, a national promotion to remind towns and cities of the events that have shaped them.

Latin for Beginners on Thursday, May 15 and Maps for Local History on Saturday, May 17 at the Worcestershire Record Office at County Hall are the next scheduled events.

"I'm very pleased the council is able to offer such high quality workshops free of charge," said Councillor Stephen Clee, the county council's assistant cabinet member for culture.

"Worcestershire is a county of culture and everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy our history and heritage."

For event times and to book a place on a workshop call the history centre on 01905 765922 or the record office on 01905 766351.