The Threekingham Viking Festival was organised by members of the Aveland History Group and was designed to remember the Battle of Stow in 870 where local Saxons fought and eventually lost against marauding Danish Vikings of ‘the Great Heathen Army’, according to historical accounts.
As well as spectacular pitched battles featuring sword and axe-wielding armies, plus archers, there was a large encampment with authentically-dressed enthusiasts showing visitors how the people of the time would have cooked, hunted, made their clothes, weapons and jewellery.
Families could have a go at an archaeological dig in a patch of the field under the guidance of Mark Randerson, who also gave a lecture at the parish church on Friday to raise funds for church repairs.
Youngsters could have a go with a sword and shield and attack the Vikings, there was a longship and chance to buy Viking-style pottery, jewellery and even mead.
A series of free lectures by historians and archaeologists were well-attended in the parish church, which also offered refreshments towards repairs.
Alison Carr from Aveland History Group, which seeks to promote local history, said next year they plan to hold an event based around Folkingham’s wartime airfield.
5. L-R Julia Feitosa, Olivia Mcgruer 15 and Katrina McGruer of Folkingham
L-R Julia Feitosa, Olivia Mcgruer 15 and Katrina McGruer of Folkingham Photo: David Dawson
6. Archers L-R Andris Rozentals, George Exon, Josh Moore, Maiken Bagley
Archers L-R Andris Rozentals, George Exon, Josh Moore, Maiken Bagley Photo: David Dawson
7. Joanna and Tom Wiszniewska of Nottingham, with Matty Watson and James Yates of Nidhoggr Mead Company.
Joanna and Tom Wiszniewska of Nottingham, with Matty Watson and James Yates of Nidhoggr Mead Company. Photo: David Dawson
8. 20230916_152136.jpg
Vikings and Saxons do battle at Threekingham for crowds. Photo: Andy Hubbert