Hundreds head to popular Ludlow Medieval Christmas Fayre

Hundreds gathered from across the region for the Ludlow Medieval Christmas Fayre on Saturday and Sunday.

The hugely popular annual event, now in its 19th year, returned to the town’s stunning castle in the heart of the beautiful Marches countryside for another historic weekend.

Across the two days, the castle and its grounds were transformed into a fun festival for all the family.

From more than a hundred stalls to medieval jesters and musicians – there was a packed programme fit for the whole family.

Event organiser Prue Dakin was delighted with how the event went. She said: "The crows were fantastic. We've had wonderful people smiling all weekend with jesters wondering around everywhere.

"It's still early stages to say how many people came but we're really pleased. The numbers look great and people have been having a great time.

"There was a group of fighting knights who were amazing but people just love music. The puppets and all the theatre were really popular too.

"You'd go past a stage and all you can hear is people laughing. It's great."

Revellers enjoyed a host of acts including James the Jester and Kris Katchit alongside fayre regulars BZ Ents and Hand to Mouth puppet theatre, with their family-friendly shows.

Carols were aplenty with the acclaimed The Quire, as well as Discover History’s Beastly Battles.

Visitors also had the opportunity to take a look at what the well-dressed medieval person wore upon their head – from the sensible to the downright silly – with medieval tailor’s assistant Sarah Thursfield.

They joined carol-singers under a starry sky for a torch-lit evening of medieval revels on Saturday when the fayre threw open its gates for a special late night opening until 9pm.

Guests also visited St. Nick in his magical den, tried on medieval armour, tested their crossbow and archery skills plus much more.

With this years event out the way, preparations are already under way for 2018 – the Ludlow Medieval Christmas Fayre's 20th anniversary event.

Organiser Prue added: "When you're hoping for good weather and its delivered on time you're so grateful.

"It's a year long job to organise the event. I've got some wonderful people working on team but when it comes down to it's great when everything goes well.

"We get a lot of people travelling in coaches or independently from all over the country.

"Next year is going to be our 20th anniversary which is going to be quite exciting. With it being a year round job we'll be preparing soon."

For more information on the show go to the Ludlow Medieval Christmas Fayre website at www.ludlowmedievalchristmas.co.uk for further information.