UNITED KINGDOM: English medieval festival takes people back in time in one of the UK's largest period re-enactment extravaganzas of the middle ages

Imagine living in Medieval England. For most people this would be a rather difficult request but not for those whose passion and past time is spent re-creating a 'Living History' of the period. 'England's Medieval Festival' is one of the UK's largest period Re-enactment extravaganza of this period where groups come together to experience 'Hands on History'. Now in its 14th year England's Medieval Festival attracted over 30,000 people over the recent three day bank holiday. Over 2,500 participants from all around Europe ate, slept and lived back in the 15th century Nestling within the Sussex countryside the back drop to the festival is the 15th century moated castle - Herstmonceux Castle. In 1441 Sir Robert Fiennes, treasurer of the household of Henry VI began constructing the castle, one of the first major brick buildings in England. The castle embodies the history of Medieval England and the romance of renaissance Europe. The festival day begins with a Grand Parade in front of Castle, where the 're-enactors' are introduced to the crowd. Two giant pagan figures dancing in parade are called Herne and Andred. Herne is a representation of a pagan male deity known as Herne the Hunter and his lady "Andred" represents the "Goddess of the Weald". Stalls were selling everything for the modern day medieval person from swords, bow and arrows to clothing. Other activities included various period entertainers such as the 'Fraca Modi'. This is a ban of minstrels who perform medieval songs on replica instruments such as the fiddle, rebec, mandolin and recorder. And of course no medieval event would be complete without a jester, jesters did indeed look and act like fools, but it was their job to entertain the guests between courses over the lengthy celebratory meals held at the time. "These people want to get away from society. Especially British people, we do, we take pride in our heritage, there's that side of things. And people love a good day out," said jester, Devistick Pete. Unlike others, jesters hold the rare position of being able to criticise and mock their masters in the name of entertainment. But the highlight of the Day for participates and spectators alike was the Mock Battle for Hertmonceux Castle, otherwise known as the "Siege of Hertmonceux Castle ". Here a fictional event depicts a young couple's survival (Lady Katherine Gregory and Sir Paul Wellesley) as their wedding day turns into a siege as the castle is besieged by ruthless enemies. Over 1000 Knights, Bowmen and Men-at-Arms laid siege to the Castle. "It means that you can remove yourself from reality and forget what happens outside. You are not in the 21st century when you come here, you are in the 15th century. And we try to live that way," said 'Master Ian'. Even the typical British summer weather did not disappoint the crowd as heavy showers were the order of the day! A quirky story.

ITN Source | September 2, 2006