Norwich has always welcomed Strangers to its city but some have been more welcome than others. The Normans disrupted Anglo-Scandinavian life, breaking the 200-year link with Denmark and reconnecting with France and Europe.

The transformation of Norwich Castle’s iconic Norman Keep was one of the largest UK heritage projects of recent years, generously supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. It enabled the rebuilding of the medieval floors and rooms so that visitors can experience a Norman royal palace and its stories.

SHG intends, as in past years, to organise a Summer Excursion to a local point of historic interest.

Smugglers of the 18th and 19th centuries are often depicted as heroic figures defying high taxes and an oppressive government, all set against a backdrop of moonlight, secret tunnels and rugged coastline.

John Keyte, from the Rescue Wooden Boats group at Stiffkey will tell stories of the working wooden boats unique to this coast, of the people who built and used them, and of the skills and craftsmanship involved.

A tale of two admirals. Admiral Nelson commanded the fleet which kept Napoleon at bay; Admiral Fisher rebuilt the navy which kept the Kaiser out. Which admiral was the more influential figure in British naval history?

SHG intends, as in past years, to organise a winter social event for members .

Two members of the “Society of Friends” meeting in Sheringham, Sheila Goldsmith and Ruth Yates, will give us the background to the Quaker’s history in both the town, and the wider county of Norfolk.

Wyn, as he preferred to be known, went to school in Norfolk and later spent much of his working life in Colonial Africa. An athlete of note, he was a renowned high altitude mountaineer and ocean sailor.