In the shadow of Battle Abbey over 600 battle-scarred veterans from the world of medieval re-enactment braved the rain and each other to recreate that stirring memory from 1066AD when the Normans achieved in just one day, with swords and a cunning tactical plan, what the European Union has been trying unsuccessfully to achieve with spiteful words for the past three years – the conquest and subjugation of Anglo-Saxons.
Over two days last weekend, October 12-13, the clash of swords and the thunder of hooves entertained the huge crowds that visited this epic festival of displays, activities and re-enactments making up the biggest event in the English Heritage calendar.
Members of the public were able to mingle with both Norman and Saxon soldiers in their encampments, learn about life in 11th-century armies, meet falconers and their birds of prey and even try their hand at archery.
Most of the participants were members of “The Vikings”, the largest re-enactment association in the UK which comprises many smaller groups and also various overseas groups, principally for this event, the French.
Ken Kinrade (right) has been portraying King Harold for more than eight years now. A science teacher when out of battledress, he hails from Staffordshire, “The heart of Mercia” he says. Ken is passionate about medieval history and the world of re-enactment – you’d have to be really, his outfit of chain mail, sword and leather accessories weighs over 80lbs: “It’s exhausting just wearing this kit all day, and that’s before fighting off the Normans.”
And the Normans this year were genuine. Arnaud LeFevre (pictured in the slide show below) had the starring role as William, Duke of Normandy. A true Norman, he struggled to look menacing when posing for pictures with the public, but who needs to when your victory is a foregone conclusion?
Nevertheless, as the battle reached its zenith, the commentator urging the crowd to applaud the victors, and the Norman banner held triumphant, a spirit of defiance swelled from the public enclosures. Boos and not a few cat-calls were hurled at the invaders and the spectre of Brexit breached the pages of history.
Image Credits: Chris Lawson .