In a change to our usual events at Peterborough where we are normally based in the city's marvellous museum. This time we found ourselves in the wonderful medieval location of the Cathedral grounds. We would have been hard pressed indeed to find a better location for a 1360's events; with the atmospheric Cathedral towering above us and the arena events being held in the Cathedral precincts.
One of many groups there we found ourselves more in the middle of the timeline this event than our more usual starting position of being the earliest dated group there. Romans, Vikings, Saxons, medieval, Napoleanic and World War II reenactors took to the floor to create a very full and very interesting day. The staff responsible had hoped for 5,000 people to attend over the weekend and found themselves deluged with 10,000 people through the gate on the first day alone.
Traders and markets stalls only added to the atmosphere with their stands and entertainment available for all to see as they entered the cathedral grounds.
Our arena events saw us fight as the French against a small, desperate but none the less victorious group of English, in our children's fights. We then moved through the sword and dagger drills ending finally in the Wager by Battle between two brothers and their enemies in a fight all around the in terrible insult of Quakebottom that was levied against the youngest brother and his desire to get his hands on the others red Coat of Plates as his own one was looking a little worn out. Based upon this work and the tireless efforts of the members (special mention to Paul and Steve) at the kit area the event organisers all fed back that they were more than happy with the work, booking us again for next year.
As ever the building garnered huge interest from the site visitors and reenactors alike, dressed this time as a Reeve's house it stood along side our newest building acquisition the military bell tent, both providing excellent cover from the sun which was brutal in the equipment and humidity, but none the less aided in bringing people to the event instead of driving them away as the rain can often do.
As ever the local Chinese restuarant saw us desend upon it, not in kit (maybe next year), and thoroughly enjoy an evening of nice food, company and drink.
In conclusion the event was a resounding success, enjoyed by all that went there both from the public and the group and we are looking forward to next year already.