HISTORY was brought to life in the grounds beneath Berkeley Castle over the weekend.

An entire medieval village was erected for the ‘Skirmish’, which invites visitors to enjoy life as it used to be, without the benefits of modern times.

"It’s been absolutely fabulous, especially the response from the public," said organiser Chris Bruce.

"Of course the only thing that let us down was our oldest adversary – the weather. It was alright on Saturday, but the downpour overnight and on Sunday seemed to have put people off coming for the second day, which is a real shame.

"Footfall is certainly down from last year, although in this weather it does help with conditions underfoot if fewer people are here.

"Of course those that did turn out had a wonderful time," added Chris.

"There was one lady who has been trying to get here for three years and she has finally made it. It’s very touching."

Highlights from the event included the siege engines and trebuchets, which were a new attraction this year, while the jousting and archery were as popular as ever.

"Its always difficult to single out any particular part as a highlight," added Chris, "but you have to save the superlatives for the big battle at the end of the day, and all the accompanying banging and clashing that goes with it."