About Us |
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The Medieval Combat Society is one of the leading and oldest re-enactment societies and has over 60 members from all over England and Wales and from all walks of life. It is a fun, friendly and family orientated medieval group. We are dedicated re-enactors with families of up to three generations taking part. There are roles for members of all ages within the group. The rationale behind our society is based on King Edward III (1327-1377) and his son Edward of Woodstock, more popularly known as The Black Prince. Many chivalric foot tournaments of nobility and knights were held at that time, which the society recreates. England laid claim to the throne of France, with victories at the battles of Sluys, Crecy and Poitiers. This was the time of Chaucer, the founding of the Order of the Garter with its St George's Day tournaments. Also it was the start of the Hundred Years' War and the Black Death killing up to half of England's population. The society are proud of our exemplary safety record whist still providing fast moving, exciting and enjoyable re-enactments of medieval tournaments. Squires generally train with our combat masters for one or two years before becoming Knights. The Knights take part in free form, non-choreographed full contact combat displays, clad in armour and using a variety of weaponry authentic to the period. Archers maintain their sharp shooting with practice at the butts under the watchful gaze of the archery master. The Society are happy to encourage any members who wish to train to fight. Also members are encouraged to expand their medieval personalities and skills in many ways including archery, costume, dance and music. Show and tell is another area that has expanded over the years with displays showing medicine through time and fibres, fabric making and natural dyes. There are many characters that can be played by the members and some have more than one character such as royalty, nobility, wenches, clergy and many more. We can't forget our canine friends, they are encouraged to join in as well! During the winter months we spend every other Sunday training where members get together and practice. Part of the fun in re-enacting is where you can come away from your modern day lives, don your medieval personality and have a jolly good laugh. The Society have performed re-enactments at many major venues throughout the UK, castles, churches and cathedrals, manor houses, museums, St Georges Day celebrations. We also provide work for screen and television. You may have seen us in such productions as Red Dwarf, Neverwhere, The Hollow Crown as well as Expedition Unknown. Our displays vary from small street shows, where space is limited to a full size arena and foot tournament. Outside of the tournament we also provide medieval dancing, music, archery and banquets. |
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