David Rizzio & Mary Queen of Scots

David Rizzio came to Scotland from Italy in 1561. He quickly rose to power and became secretary to Queen Mary. He exerted considerable influence and was perceived to be a threat to English interests by Sir William Cecil. On the evening of the 9th March 1566 he was murdered by her jealous husband Lord Darnley and others.This is his story, excellently explored by David Tweedie, Oxford-educated and the descendent of two of Rizzio's murderers.

David Tweedie was born in Malaysia. He grew up there as well as in Sydney, Crieff and Surrey. He read history at Oxford, lived in London and visited Edinburgh at every opportunity. Among his ancestors are two of Rizzio's murderers.