THESE spectacular photographs give an idea of the brilliant and bloody pageantry which awaits visitors at a medieval festival expected to draw crowds in their thousands.
The Battle of Evesham Festival is just around the corner, taking place on Saturday, August 5 and Sunday, August 6, marking one of the pivotal struggles in English history which sowed the earliest seeds of our modern liberties.
As previously reported, the festival in Crown Meadow in Evesham is expected to draw in crowds of 35,000 and is rapidly gaining a name for itself as the biggest event of its kind not only in England but across Europe.
Taken by Battle of Evesham and Supporters, these photos capture some of the excitement and vibrant colours which make the festival such a popular spectacle.
Trevor Battersby, a committee member for the festival, said: "The Battle of Evesham Festival is not just about the fabulous action - the educational side is just as important. For example, following the recent release of the film ‘The Lost King’ about the discovery of his remains, interest in King Richard III has expanded massively.
"So we are delighted to welcome The Richard III Society as one of the historic societies attending this year’s Battle of Evesham, along with The Battle of Worcester Society and The Simon de Montfort Society. The Battlefields Trust will also be present as evidence of our continuing co-operation, especially in developing a vision for the development of an expanded memorial on Evesham’s Battlefield.
"Also attracted are best-selling historical fiction novelists and academic authors to meet and greet fans, talk about their inspiration and to sign copies of their books. We also have Rifleman Harris from the hit TV series Sharp with memorabilia from the show."
The Battle of Evesham, fought on August 4m, 1265, was one of the two main battles of England's Second Barons' War. It ended with the defeat of Simon de Montfort, Earl of Leicester, and the rebellious barons by the future King Edward I, who led the forces of his father, King Henry III
The popular festival, which is free to enter, is held on the meadows by the River Avon and involves a recreation of the battle, bringing together re-enactors from across the country and from abroad. The weekend will feature demonstrations of medieval living including cookery, weaponry and medicine.
The festival culminates in the spectacular main battle re-enactments with the battle considered by many to have paved the way for democracy and the freedoms and liberties we enjoy today.
The action-packed weekend will include around 500 re-enactors, camping and fighting ‘to the death’ on both days.
The Battle of Evesham Grand Parade, with 20 mounted knights in full armour will wind its way through the town on Saturday morning.
On Evesham’s Avon riverside meadows, where Simon De Montfort's army was originally camped, visitors can watch medieval musicians and dancing, along with craftsmen and women demonstrating their crafts, including medieval cookery, medicine, ironmongery and medieval calligraphy.
The 13th-century weapon demonstrations, including archery, cavalry skills and the chance to see a Trebuchet siege engine in action.
Next to the camp, there will be falconry, treasure trails and children’s activities. Around 150 stalls and food outlets will be selling a range of artisan crafts, both medieval and modern, dishes and snacks plus a licenced bar.
Although free to all, there is a suggested entry donation of £2 per person. All day parking is available adjacent to the festival at a cost of £5 per car including occupants.
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