Chepstow Castle is a big castle, well worth a visit and a good look round, it has a very long history - starting with the Normans - and all the way through history.  We were there to celebrate the 360th anniversary of the breaking of the Siege of Chepstow Castle which involved the slaughter of pretty much everyone in the castle (those who hadn’t managed to sneak out and desert anyway) and the death of the garrison commander, though whether this was at the hands of the enemy or his own troops no one knows, it seems he was not exactly popular with the lads.

The plan was to do living history throughout the day - not only were we there doing the blacksmithing sending sparks in all directions when pattern welding - but this group now have a woodcarver who is making an excellent start on this craft and is starting his career in wood carving by making spoons.  This is in addition to the folks who do the very important jb of getting us all fed.  Later in the afternoon a short service was held and a wreath laid on the plaque for the garrison commander, spookily enough the young girl they had to lay the wreath was his descendant.  This was followed by a sadly much reduced battle due to the very bad state of the ground (very wet, muddy and slippy) due to the rain.  However everyone soldiered on and there was dry powder so muskets and cannons went bang and there was also fighting with pikes and swords.

The crowd who had bravely turned out despite the despicable weather were pleased to see that we were there and appreciated the efforts of both groups to stick it out and put on the best show that we could for them.  We have been asked to go back again next year and play some more - so maybe see you there and if you are coming please bring the sun with you......