THE Abbey Grounds will once again turn Medieval next month, this time thanks to re-enactment society Regia Anglorum.

With the Abbey 900 Festival now in full swing, organisers went over to Lincoln earlier this month to watch the group in action, before their arrival in Cirencester on Saturday, July 8.

One of the highlights of their two-day stay in the town will be a special performance influenced by the destruction of the abbey itself in 1142.

This came about as a result of the war of succession between Empress Matilda and her brother Stephen.

The Formal Battle for Cirencester will commence at 2pm on Saturday (8) and Sunday (9), while other activities on both days include a falconry display and weapons training.

Full schedule of events for Saturday, July 8 and Sunday, July 9:

  • 10.30am-4.30pm: Regia Anglorum Living History
  • 10am-11am: Warriors weapon training in arena, followed by archery in the area
  • 11am-midday: Contest between selected band of warriors as a Battle of Champions for Stephen and Matilda
  • Midday-1pm: Arming of the knight; demonstrate the clothing and equipment of a typical high class foot knight the period
  • 1pm: Falconry Display
  • 2pm-2.30pm: The Warriors gather for the battle for the day and equip themselves
  • 2pm-3pm: Formal Battle for Cirencester between Queen Matilda's forces and King Stephen
  • 3pm-4pm: Post battle - Last man standing