Record crowd predicted for medieval battle re-enactment

The event involves more than 700 medieval re-enactors, organisers said

The organisers of a medieval battle festival believe they could see a record attendance of up to 50,000 people.

The two-day Battle of Evesham event got underway on Saturday and will feature more than 700 performers and re-enactors with 20 knights on horses.

As well as a recreation of the battle, it includes stalls, demonstrations and a parade.

The original battle was fought in 1265 between a royal army and forces supporting Simon de Montfort, who had led a rebellion of barons.

One of the organisers, Mick Hurst, claimed the expected 735 re-enactors made it the biggest 13th Century festival in Europe.

He also said the numbers turning up for the free event were "bonkers" and he believed the good weather was bringing in extra visitors.

Re-enactors have come from all over Europe to take part

The event seeks to recreate the Battle of Evesham in 1265

A medieval camp was set up and the re-enactors demonstrated cookery, weapons and medicines from the period.

They were also showing visitors a mini trebuchet alongside displays of falconry and horse-riding.

The event is run by volunteers who aim to cover its costs and not to make a profit.

Another of the volunteers, Trevor Battersby, said they wanted to stage a "great day out" and give re-enactors from all over Europe "a chance to have some fun".

He added they also tried to explain to people "the importance of the Battle of Evesham in our political history".

The battle ended with the death of Simon de Montfort and defeat for his army, bringing to a close a brief period of English history when he had been the country's effective ruler, governing in King Henry's name.

The event was looking for more volunteers for 2025, organisers added.