Resuming monthly activity after an interruption due to the pandemic, Mansfield Probus Club had a talk from Nottingham crime writer John Smith about local literary figures at its February meeting.

A club spokesman said: “He covered a huge range of authors, several of whom were known to members — Erasmus Darwin, Thomas Cranmer, D.H. Lawrence, Alan Sillitoe. Others, like Agatha Christie, James M. Barrie, Grahame Green and Charles Kingsley, had tangible links to the county.

“Nottinghamshire-born Arthur Mee remains a popular children’s book writer, while perhaps the superstar from the county is Lord Byron, one time resident at Newstead Abbey.”

Meeting for lunch at the Masonic Hall, Mansfield, on the second Thursday of each month, Mansfield Probus extends a warm welcome to anyone retired.

The next meeting, on Thursday, 10th March, will see speaker Ian Morgan talk about ‘Old Time Punishments’.

The spokesman added: “Come and get the flavour of a warm and welcoming group — and a bonus! Your lunch will be on the club, with no commitment involved, although, of course, we hope to take things further!”

Contact secretary Mike Bull on 01623 623884 or guest host John Taylor on 01623 812600 for information.