We’ve scoured the county to bring you the top events taking place this month. Compiled bu Charlotte Tomlinson-White

The History Buff

Widely regarded as one of the world’s most eminent historians, Dr David Starkey CBE is the UK’s leading constitutional and monarchy expert. Best known for his Channel 4 television documentary series, which includes ‘Henry VIII of England’, ‘Elizabeth I of England’ and ‘The Six Wives of Henry VIII’, you can join him this month for a fascinating talk on his subject of expertise. A must for any history buff or fan of The Monarchy.

When: October 31, 8pm

Where: The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre, 56 East Street, Havant, PO9 1BS, 02392 472700, www.thespring.co.uk

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From Field to Fashion

Discover the ever-evolving story of a coat which has survived its utilitarian roots to become an iconic fashion garment. Introduced by Hilary Alexander OBE, the exhibition charts key directional moments, as well as great filmic moments and significant style influencers. See an authentic WWI cavalry trench coat, as well as the coat worn by Marlene Dietrich in the film A Foreign Affair.

When: October 4 to December 21

Where: The Gallery, Winchester Discovery Centre, Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8SB, 01962 873603, www3.hants.gov.uk/wdc-gallery.htm

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Foul-Mouthed Feminism

If you think you’d enjoy a 43 year old woman shouting about gender inequality in a Gloucester accent for nearly two hours then this is definitely the show for you! Fresh from R4’s Bridget Christie Minds the Gap, BBC’s HIGNFY, QI, It’s Kevin and C4’s Cardinal Burns, Bridget Christie will be bringing her new show A Bic for Her to Fareham this month. With strong language and adult themes.

When: October 8, 7.30pm

Where: Ashcroft Arts Centre, Osborn Road, Fareham, PO16 7DX, 01329 223100, www.ashcroft.org.uk

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The Ultimate Ghost Tour

A house so haunted that it had to be demolished, Hinton Ampner is famed for having one of the most well documented Victorian ghost stories. Now, a new geophysics survey has revealed the exact location of the original house. On All Hallows Eve join a professional medium for a tour of the grounds and re-telling of the terrifying story. A truly haunting experience for adults only!

When: October 31, 7pm – 12pm

Where: Hinton Ampner, Alresford, SO24 0LA, 01962 771305, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner

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Border Crossings

Blurring the boundaries of dance, circus and theatre, Joli Vyann’s indoor production fuses the energy of hand-to-hand acrobatics with graceful contemporary dance creating a captivating style of physical performance. Exploring ideas of immigration, journeys, humanity and tolerance, Stateless is the result of a collaboration with French choreographer Florence Caillon.

When: October 3, 7.30pm

Where: The Point, Leigh Road, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE, 02380 652333, www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

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A Wartime Classic

After months of extensive restoration, a 100 year old ‘J’ type military lorry is ready to feature in numerous events and exhibitions taking place around the county to mark the anniversary of WW1. Once used to deliver supplies to soldiers in the trenches, there are only a few left in military livery.

When: October 4

Where: Gosport Gallery, Walpole Road, Gosport, PO12 1NS, 0845 603 5631, www3.hants.gov.uk/gosport-gallery.htm

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Wizard Weekend

The Watercress Line will be transformed into a place of magic and mischief this Halloween. Board the Wizard Express, walk in Harry Potter’s footsteps over the railway footbridge and find out about bats, owls and all things magical! With craft activities, face painting, magic shows, Besom brooms and Falcon High displays, it’s a must for families! Don’t forget to dress up!

When: October 31 - November 2

Where: Midhants Railway Watercress Line, The Railway Station, Station Road, Alresford SO24 9JG, 01962 733810, www.watercressline.co.uk

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Brazlilian Dance

Combining the precision of classical ballet with the sensuality of Latin dance rhythms, Grupo Corpo’s dancers fill the stage with elegant, virtuosic and joyful dance. Don’t miss the post-performance talk on October 7.

When: October 7 and 8, 7.30pm

Where: The Mayflower, 26 Commercial Road, Southampton, SO15 1AP, 02380 711811, www.mayflower.org.uk

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Spinnaker Tower-Thon

The Spinnaker Tower has launched the search for the fastest stair runner to conquer their 530 stairs. The race forms part of a World Federation of Great Tower series of stair runs, which will culminate at the Empire State Building. Two runners, the top male and female competitors, will be flown to New York to take part.

When: October 12

Where: Spinnaker Tower, Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, PO1 3TT, 02392 857520, www.spinnakertower.co.uk

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A Zulu Ballet

Featuring Grammy award-winning South African legends Ladysmith Black Mambazo and dancers from The Royal Ballet, Inala, meaning ‘abundance of goodwill’, is a cultural explosion of music, song and dance. Embracing South Africa’s past, present and future, Inala delivers a striking live story-telling experience, beautifully blending South African and Western cultures in a celebration of the rainbow nation.

When: October 1, 7.45pm Where: The Anvil, Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR; 01256 844244; www.anvilarts.org.uk