Horrible Histories

Queen Victoria learns her British comforts aren't very British, a Viking warrior won't stop talking in rhyme, and the contestants try to become executioners on Axe Factor.

A selection of monarchs and a plotting Stuart feature in this week's sketch-laden edition of Horrible Histories, filled with foul, funny and fascinating historical facts.

Delving back into Tudor times, Henry VIII opens his heart about his marriages in an ad for Oh Yea magazine and potential recruits face the chop as they audition to become an executioner in The Axe Factor.

The Ancient Greek origins of Draconian law are revealed in a sketch about Draco, the extremely austere Athenian ruler and law-maker, and the Vikings' love of creating verse to remember great battles is conveyed in rhyme. In addition, Guy Fawkes provides his personal safety tips for 5 November.

Finally, Bob Hale's report provides a rapid rundown of the rise and fall of the British Empire and Queen Victoria flexes her vocal chords to sing a rousing song about so-called "British things".