Two celebratory picnics are being held at Glendurgan Garden in tribute to the life and legacy of Anna Maria Fox, the pioneering thinker and founder of the Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society.

Local theatre company, Scary Little Girls, is inviting all members of the local community to the picnics at Glendurgan Garden, where members of the Fox family still live.

Born 200 years ago, Anna Maria was an advocate of Cornish innovation and culture, and at just 17 years of age, co-founded what is now known as The Poly.

Funded by the Heritage Lottery, the picnics are part of a number of celebratory events being held in and around Falmouth throughout the year.

Artistic Director of Scary Little Girls, Rebecca Mordan, said: “Anna Maria’s hopes for the development of science, the arts and culture in Cornwall are, today, realised by our local artists, scientists, and her own family. With these anniversary events, we hope not only to do her memory justice, but also explore how science and art are thriving in new and exciting ways in Cornwall today."

Food for the picnics will be sourced from the local area and guests are also encouraged to bring a sharing plate along.

There will be games and quizzes about Anna Maria's life at the picnics, which will be held at Glendurgan Garden on Sunday, August 28 and Sunday, September 11 from 2.30pm to 4pm.

Places can be booked by calling Becca on 07976 623706, or emailing becca@scarylittlegirls.co.uk.