As always, a highlight of the day was the re-enactment of 1066. The historical context and ‘script’ for the re-enactment is available at 1066 Re-enactment.
1066 is the year England changed forever.
From ploughshares to seaxes (Saxon knives), farmers to warriors, the youngsters experienced the peaceful farming life in the Meon Valley before taking up arms to defend king and country; first against the Vikings at Stamford Bridge about 300 miles north, near York (where the English army was successful).
Then, just three weeks later, against the Norman army at Hastings on the South Coast.
The defeat at Hastings, with the death of King Harold, marked the end of Saxon rule and the passing of the English throne at Winchester (our ancient capital) to William Duke of Normandy became in 1066.
He became the first Norman King of England, establishing his throne at Winchester and being crowned William I of England at Westminster Abbey on Christmas day.