The recent Fort Nelson event our third of four this year went by with everyone from the public to the society members enjoying themselves. For us this event represented a tremendous opportunity to use the working period cannon the fort has access to on the mobile gun platform. Firing the weapon three times a day was gruelling work but thoroughly enjoyed by all watching and equally by those involved.
The 'hot press' tavern scene was a sure fire success with an additional one being carried out each day to meet public demand, this additional demand was met with impromtu cutlass drills carried out by our members and resident historical 19th Century cutlass and pike drill expert Steve Johns.
The weather started each day unkindly but neither the weather, a home ground Portsmouth game or the Olympics closing ceremony managed to keep good sized crowds away from the spectacle being offered by the Fort, us and the Historical Maritime Museum.
Our building saw yet another configuartion as the tavern/inn setting for the 'hot press' fight scene showing its versatility off for the audience who never once suspected that it has also stood as a gladiatorial armoury, medieval armourers or blacksmith's workshop!
A great job carried out by all and enjoyed by all that saw it.