PEOPLE IN MORAY who are engaged in researching their family tree could be interested in a session being held in Moray as part of the Nairn Book and Arts Festival this week.

National Trust archivist Ian Riches is hosting the session from 11.30am at Brodie Castle on Thursday (September 14) that, while billed as an introduction to estate records and archives, could prove invaluable for those looking into their own family history.

Ian will look at different types of records that are available for researching a family tree, introducing archives and ledgers from Brodie Castle’s own archives. These document tenants, land sales and leases on the Brodie estate.

On the same day at 2pm Jennifer Melville, current Head of Curatorial & Conservation Services, National Trust for Scotland and former Head of Art at Aberdeen Art Gallery & Museums, examines the intriguing links between the Brodie and Gordon families.

She will be focusing on the famous Victorian artist, Sir Edwin Landseer and his painting of Driver, the favourite dog of George, 5th and last Duke of Gordon, which now hangs in the library of Brodie Castle.

Bookings for either session call 01667 452624 or book online at www.nairnfestival.co.uk.

For those attending lunch is also available between the sessions – advanced bookings for that are preferred and can be made by calling 01309 641371 or by Email to brodiecastle@nts.org.uk