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Thousands flock to see 1066 battle re-enactment

‘Soldiers’ clashed as the Battle of Hastings was brought to life on the anniversary of the conquest.

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Battle of Hastings re-enactment

Thousands of people have turned out to watch a re-enactment of one of the most famous battles in history.

More than 600 soldiers clashed in a remake of the Battle of Hastings in East Sussex on Saturday.

Battle re-enactment
Hundreds of people dressed as soldiers “fought” on either the Saxon or Norman side (Gareth Fuller/PA)

The two-day event organised by English Heritage at Battle Abbey hopes to bring to life the tension of the 1066 conquest as King Harold and his Saxon army took on Duke William and his Norman soldiers in a fight for the English throne.

Visitors were able to step into Norman and Saxon encampments to learn about life in an 11th century army and experience the sights, sounds and smells of the battlefield.

Battle re-enactment
The re-enactment depicted the brutality of the battle (Gareth Fuller/PA)

Medieval music was also performed and there were falconry displays as well as a chance to try archery.

Events manager Diana Evans said: “This event is always incredibly popular, it’s the opportunity to relive the most important battle in English history and experience what it would have been like on the battlefield for the Saxon and Norman soldiers.”

Battle re-enactment
Thousands of people watched as the battle commenced (Gareth Fuller/PA)

The event continues on Sunday, which is 952 years exactly since the day of the battle.

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