Hundreds see Whittington Castle invaded by Normans

Hundreds of people turned out at Whittington Castle, near Oswestry, under glorious sunshine this bank holiday to see the castle turn back time in a re-enactment of the Norman Invasion in 1193.

Deadly battle re-enactments, weapon displays, a Norman market, craft stalls and a horrible history show were all on the bill for children and adults alike to enjoy.

A Norman fashion show, historical combat displays of the attack of the castle and a tournament of champions had the crowds cheering and watching with amazement.

Over the three days a 300 strong re-enactment group donning tunics and Norman garments has recreated the siege of Whittington in 1193 when King Richard I remained hostage at the hands of Leopold of Austria, whilst a huge ransom is raised across England and Normandy.

People watched the story unfold as John, his brother, seized more and more of the power in England, backed by Philip the King of France, much to the chagrin of nobles still loyal to his brother.

Fighting broke out between forces claiming Richard I would return, and a pro-John faction claiming that he had died and John was the rightful king.

Whittington Castle was seized by those loyal to John, claiming to hold it in his name, and that Richard has died.

A large force of Ricardian loyalists marched to claim the castle in the name of the Lionheart in anticipation of his return.

Paul Jones, chairman of the Whittington Castle Trust, said: "It has been a great weekend and has been very well attended over the three days with about 1,000 turning out.

"The re-enactments have been fantastic and have really replicated the battles.

"The crowds have really been enjoying themselves and it has been great for the village.

"It is great to see the castle come to life and be transported back in time and watching the battles with the ruins as a backdrop has made for a really good festival.

"The weather has also helped, it has been nice and sunny, but not so hot that people can't enjoy themselves. Its been a excellent few days."

The event has grown from strength to strength over the years increasing in popularity and it likely to go ahead again next year.

Mr Jones added: "The event is getting more popular year on year and is getting more widely known and better attended. I have been for the last three years and it has really become a great spectacle and regular on the villages calendar."