Students were given an opportunity to chat to an acclaimed historian, broadcaster and novelist when he spoke at a university.

Lord Melvyn Bragg arrived at the University of Leicester's New History Lab yesterday afternoon and addressed a group of students and staff.

Lord Bragg, arguably most famous for presenting the South Bank Show, chatted to students at the building, in Salisbury Road, Leicester, before taking part in a question-and-answer session.

About 40 people attended the event and asked questions about politics, history and his impressive career.

He said: "I like coming to events like these. I studied history myself at university so I was more than happy to answer any questions. We chatted about the House of Lords and some politicians, as well as history and some of the things I've done. It was very interesting."

Professor of English History Rob Colls has previously worked on television projects with Lord Bragg and arranged the visit.

He said: "It's a fantastic that someone of his stature would come to this event."