Talk to reveal story behind obelisk

Dr Ann-Marie Akehurst, an architectural historian from York University, will speak about Hawksmoor's career and his buildings to Ripon Civic Society

Hawksmoor was one of Britain's greatest architects, and he designed the Ripon obelisk – the earliest free-standing obelisk in Britain – in 1702.

He worked on some of the most important buildings of the early 18th century, including Blenheim Palace and Castle Howard, where he designed the mausoleum.

Dr Akehurst is a member of York University's Centre for Eighteenth Century Studies. An expert on classical and vernacular eighteenth-century architecture, she is also a member of the Yorkshire Country House partnership.

Civic Society Chariman David Winpenny said: "Hawksmoor was especially interested in urban planning, but most of his designs for urban spaces remained unrealised."

The meeting starts at Allhallowgate Methodist Church Hall, Victoria Grove, Ripon, at 7.30pm. There is a charge of 2 for non-members.