If you were near the centre of Evesham on Saturday 17 or Sunday 18 May, you would have seen dozens of people in medieval dress at their encampment in the Abbey church grounds and running stalls in Market Square and the grounds of St Lawrence’s church and All Saints church.
There were demonstrations of fighting and the chance to have a go at archery, axe throwing and sword fighting. The event was very well attended, with many families there perusing the tunics and cloaks, helmets, swords, longbows, woven baskets, leather goods, jewellery, wooden chests, desks and chairs made to authentic medieval design, and many other items. Fortunately, modern day necessities such as coffee, pizzas and doughnuts were also on sale.
Robert and I ran a publicity stand for MFHS in St Lawrence’s church with a number of other community and history-related societies and had a pleasant time chatting to people about family history as they made their way round the church.
A larger event, the Battle of Evesham Medieval Festival, will take place from 1 – 3 August.
Wendy Gillespie
