AN INVITATION to step back in time to the 13th Century is on offer when the Battle of Evesham is re-enacted this weekend.
The landmark on Evesham’s events calendar will take place tomorrow (Saturday) and Sunday (August 6) and take visitors from near and far back to 1265 with re-enactment groups from all over the country and abroad who will entertain with a wide range of demonstrations of medieval living.
The free to enter event, takes place in the heart of Evesham, featuring a medieval festival and a camp with living history demonstrations of cookery, weaponry and medicine, plus the spectacular main battle re-enactments.
Many thousands are expected to attend to witness the battle which was instrumental in leading to the democracy we know 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 the Saturday morning.
After it has formed up between 10am and 10.30am in St Lawrence’s Church grounds, the Grand Parade will wend its way along the historic area of Evesham, ending in Abbey Park at the Simon De Montfort Memorial for a wreath-laying ceremony where all present will honour the 5,000 men who died 578 years ago.
Taking part will be about 600 re-enactors, fully armed medieval soldiers, 20 Knights on war horses, ‘King Henry III and Simon de Montfort’ along with minstrels and camp followers, all dressed in authentic 1265 costumes.
Furthermore, thanks largely to the support of Wychavon District Council chair, Coun Robert Raphael, the parade will be joined by up to 20 regional mayors and their consorts.
At the time of writing, the following have confirmed; Malvern, Bewdley, Gloucester, Forest of Dean, Wyre Forest, Hereford, Stourport, Chipping Campden, Pershore, Alcester and Worcestershire.
They are heading to Evesham in recognition of the importance of Simon de Montfort in creating the political structure which ensured the position of elected Mayor could exist.
After the parade, the guests will be treated to an authentic medieval lunch in a pavilion at the festival, before watching an afternoon of full-on medieval action.
On Evesham’s Avon riverside meadows, where Simon’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.
13th Century weapon demonstrations, including archery, cavalry skills and the chance to see a Trebuchet siege engine in action, will educate and intrigue the whole family.
In addition, 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.
Entrance is free with a suggested donation of £2 per person, and a full schedule of activities on both days is available at www.battleofevesham.co.uk
