John Ball Talks

John Ball Talks presents a range of talks via zoom on behalf of local charities. 100% of all donations received are passed to the respective organisations.

The talks all feature two historical treasures in the North West of England

The Paintings of Astley H all

Introducing the paintings in the Astley Hall collection including some which are not on public view. 

The talk gives an overview of both the subject and the artist

Astley Hall

This talk gives a journey through time from the 12th century when Richard de Chernoc gave land to the Knight Hospitallers of St John of Jerusalem introducing the family who lives at the Hall until 1922 when Sir Reginald Arthur Tatton gave the Hall to the town of Chorley as a War Memorial.

Hoghton Tower

Hoghton Tower has been owned by the de Hoghton family since the time that Duke William of Normandy seized the land following the conquest in 1066. 

The research into the history of the family reveals many fascinating aspects of a family that can trace its history nearly a thousand years

Heraldry of Lancashire Families

The Story behind the art of Heraldry and the elements chosen by Lancashire families throughout the ages.  Watch some of the images from this talk without the commentary.

Talk prepared by John Ball, Assoc. Fellow International Institute of Amateur Heralds.  

Coats of Arms recreated using Armory Gold and Inkscape.  Blazons from Burke's General Armory and R Sharpe France's Index of Lancashire Heraldry published in the Transactions of the Historic Society of Lancashire and Cheshire.

As all the talks can be presented on line they can be enjoyed by any English speaking audience throughout the world.

To arrange a talk for your group and discuss donations simply email John for more information at john@johnballtalks.co.uk

John is also a member of the Lancashire WildlifeTrust Speaker Team and you find out more about their portfolio of talks https://www.lancswt.org.uk/book-talk