The Victorians are coming to Blenheim Palace, in Woodstock, when the new season opens tomorrow - and on hand to start it off is professional actor Kevin Hicks.

He has been rehearsing his part as a strict Victorian schoolteacher, ready to give 20 minute lessons to visitors throughout the following two weeks.

Mr Hicks is principal of The History Squad which re-enacts the past in workshops and performances at various locations.

The Victorian theme also includes a display on the Great Western Railway putting in a line to Blenheim.

It culminates with the release this autumn of the new feature film Young Victoria, featuring Rupert Friend from Stonesfield and partly shot at Blenheim.