Now let us present the Ladies of Plantagenet.

Behind every noble Lord and Knight, there was usually an equally powerful woman. It was often the duty of the Lady to oversee her husband’s estate in his absence: to collect rents, to ensure that guests were entertained and even to defend the castle against enemies. The ladies add grace to the otherwise warlike proceedings - not for them the clash of steel, they will follow the gentler arts of music and the dance. They recreate the courtly dances of the 14th century such as the Pavane, the Farandole and Branles and may even invite the audience to participate.

In contrast to the village folk who are dressed in simple styles, the Ladies are seen in costumes of fine fabrics and rich colours - the fashion leaders of their day wearing clothes and materials not available to those of lesser rank.

Recreating the pageantry, excitement and action of Medieval foot combat and using reproduction weapons such as sword and axe, mace and flail, the fully armoured knights display the chivalry and courage that was Medieval warfare.

Thrill to the clash of sword and axe as the Knights of Plantagenet battle to decide the champion of champions. Knights of England engage with knights of France for the honour of their ladies and to win high renown.

Set in the year 1346, the tourney re-creates the foot combat of the period and the rivalry between the houses of Valois for France and Plantagenet for England.

It is hoped that the dispute can be settled honourably by a contest of arms and thus avoid bloody conflict between these nations.

During the 100 years war, the English longbow became the most feared weapon of the time.

This is dramatically demonstrated by the archers of Plantagenet in a factual and colourful display of archery skill.

These archers, some veterans of the war, some just passing on their skills to their offspring, bring to life in their demonstration the power and accuracy of the English longbow.

The Captain of the archers will explain not only about the bow and its uses, but also about a wide variety of arrows and arrowheads which will be available for inspection by the audience.

The archers themselves (including the Ladies) will demonstrate the destructive power of the longbow as well as their own personal prowess as they take part in a variety of individual tests of skill and accuracy.