Up to 60,000 people are expected to attend a three-day medieval reenactment event in Worcestershire that starts on Friday.

The Battle of Evesham festival is also due to feature up to 900 people in costume who will take part in a mock battle.

On Saturday there is due to be a parade through the Worcestershire town featuring reenactors on horseback.

The town’s Crown Meadow will host a medieval camp with displays of medicine, weapons, falconry and a mini trebuchet, among other attractions.

The event is organised by the Simon de Montfort Society, which holds the event every year to mark the anniversary of his death at the Battle of Evesham in 1265.

It described the battle as being “instrumental in leading to the democracy we know today”.

The Battle of Evesham marked the defeat of rebellious barons, led by de Montfort, the Earl of Leicester, by the future King Edward I.

The festival is one of a number of commemorative events in the town, including a medieval market in May and a medieval banquet in October.

The organisers ask for a suggested entry donation of £2 per person.

Image Credit: Mick Hurst

Andy Giddings
BBC News, West Midlands

BBC Hereford & Worcester