Melvyn Bragg is star guest

MELVYN BRAGG

HISTORY buffs are in for treat when renowned broadcaster and writer Melvyn Bragg comes to town tomorrow.

The presenter of “The South Bank” show and Labour life peer is visiting Oldham as part of the Live@thelibrary, which has seen a variety of literature, theatre and comedy performances take place.

Lord Bragg (76), will be talking about his new book “Now is the Time” at the Grange Arts Centre on Rochdale Road from 7pm.

He said: “It seemed like a good festival. I’ve never been to Oldham before but it seemed like an excellent place to talk about my book.”

“Now is the Time” is a fictionalised retelling of the peasants revolt of 1381.

Lord Bragg added: “I have been thinking about writing this book for a very long time.

“I’ve previously made a documentary about some of the protagonists, particularly John Ball the radical preacher, who was more radical than anyone alive in England today.

“It was the biggest popular rebellion there has ever been in this country per head of the population and it almost succeeded.

“All history is relevant to us. One of the main aspects of history in this country is people wanting more liberties. This rebellion is the great, explosive beginning to it.”

Tickets for all events are £5 (or £4 for library members) and are available from www.oldham.gov.uk/liveatthelibrary.