In Search of King Alfred

This year, 2010, I am planing my exploration of history slightly differently than before. Instead of making a one off documentary video that you download and watch in one go I want to take you on my journey, almost in real time. So rather than go away and research, explore and film a programme and then present as a finished item, I intend to update the website as I go with all the new finds, reseach and adventures as I have them. You, the listener and viewer are going to be very much part of the process and will have the opportunity to give your feedback, have your say and even suggest or guide me on places to further investigate and explore. Its going to be exciting and fun.

My first project is about Alfred the Great. Yes, he is the guy that burnt the cakes and for a lot of people that's about all they know about him. It was for me too until recently and then I discovered that actually King Alfred was an extremely important monarch. In fact, one could almost say that he was the first true King of all of England. So I want to follow in his footsteps, explore the land that he grew up in and reigned and why he was given the title 'Great' many years after his death.

Each month, using audio, video and photography I will bring to you the results of this research and present it here. There will be maps showing my progress and personal thoughts about how the project is going. Where possible I will bring you interviews with knowledgeable people and experts. I have an interview lined up with author Justin Pollard who wrote 'Alfred the Great, the King that Made England' and a podcast interview with Ruth Howard at Wantage Museum where there is a fabulous exhibit dedicated to the King who was born in that area.

I will keep you updated to the process in the daily Vobes show, but do come back and check the history section from time to time to see the updates.