THE restoration of the monarchy under Charles II, who fled the Faithful City after the Battle of Worcester, was celebrated at the Commandery.

Re-enactors at the historic building in Sidbury celebrated Oak Apple Day, which marks Charles II being restored to the throne in 1660.

A host of 17th century games were enjoyed, including skittles and hoopla.

The games chosen were picked from a famous picture by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, called 'Children's Games' which was painted in 1560.

The area was decorated in Oak Leaves to commemorate the civil war in Worcester and represent the time in 1651 when Charles II escaped enemy soldiers after the Battle of Worcester by hiding in an oak tree.

A humorous performance of Charles II's escape also took place today (Sunday), with traditional maypole and morris dancers also performing over the weekend.

Oak Apple Day was a formal holiday declared by Charles II and held on Sunday, May 29, formally abolished in 1859.

Jo Willis, who dressed as a 17th century proprietor working in a coffee house said: "It's been a really good day with plenty going on, the event is usually very popular and last year we had over 400 people.

Also on show during the day were the Worcestershire militia and the Staffordshire militia.

The militias were territorial armies made up of part-time soldiers who would be called up in an emergency and they were funded by the local squire or lord.

Brian Bullock, a Worcester Militia re-enactor said; "We really enjoy events like this and it is a really good opportunity for people to learn more about the time period."

Staffordshire Militia re-enactor Chris Mudd said: "Since a lot of the Staffordshire militia came to Worcester to fight for Charles after his visit to Coventry, it is good to be able to represent them here today."

The militia were performing military drills, as well as firing muskets during a display.

As well as it being the day Charles returned to the throne on May 30, it is his birthday on May 29 making the weekend a double celebration.

The next event at The Commandery, is a Civil War talk about Oliver Cromwell on Thursday June 2 at 7pm with tickets priced at £7.

Dr Blair Worden Emeritus Fellow of St Edmund’s Hall, University of Oxford and author of many books on Civil War issues will be the speaker.