Re-enactors polished their swords, checked their muskets and prepared for battle as the fifth annual military festival got underway at Carlisle Castle, writes Chris Jones.
Organised by Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life, the popular event took place over the weekend of May 30 and May 31, attracting visitors from across the region.
The festival once again offered a packed programme of activities and displays for families and military history enthusiasts alike.
The castle grounds were transformed into a sea of tents as the annual multi-period encampment brought together re-enactors representing a variety of historical eras.
Visitors were treated to an impressive range of attractions, including a 12th century combat tournament and an 18th-century military drill demonstration.
They also had the opportunity to meet a First World War medic and explore a display dedicated to the Second World War Burma campaign.
Among the highlights was a UK living history group portraying the 47th Regiment of Foot during its service in North America throughout the Seven Years’ War and the American Revolutionary War between 1775 and 1783.
The group recreated a colourful period encampment, complete with soldiers in authentic uniforms and ladies demonstrating traditional knitting and embroidery techniques.
A selection of military vehicles proved popular throughout the weekend, while representatives from the Solway Aviation Museum, the Royal British Legion and the modern British Army’s Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment were on hand to engage with visitors and share information about their organisations and military heritage.
Eight-year-old Frank the Soldier, from Egremont and a growing social media sensation, was among those enjoying the event. He took the opportunity to try on uniforms from different periods of history.
Entertainment was provided across both days. On Saturday afternoon, performers from the Rocket Theatre group delighted audiences with a medley of wartime songs from the Second World War era.
On Sunday, the Band of Cumbria’s Army Cadet Force entertained crowds with a lively musical performance.
