A MULTI-period history event was held at Caldicot Castle Country Park this weekend.

Fortress Wales was a multi period re-enactment and living history event held at Caldicot Castle Country Park on Sunday (1st May), encompassing re-enactment groups and a military vehicle show. The event saw knights in armour, medieval peasants and Second World War soldiers take part in an overview of living history.

The main arena showcased public displays and catering and trade stands. Andrew Upton from Bristol in the role of a machine gun Training Officer from the First World War with the First World War Horse Group, said: “We have all very much enjoyed being here in the wonderful setting of the castle grounds. It is really great to see so many people having such an amazing time.”

Robert Chambers from Bridgend, a member of the Military Vehicle Trust, sat at the wheel of a USA Ford 1942 Jeep with Monika Kudaseva, 24, from Newport. 

Monika said: “It was a great weekend of entertainment and living history demonstrations.

“There were wolf dogs, horses and even a large black raven. I found it both interesting and informative about so many different subjects such the history of warfare, keeping horses and cooking throughout the ages.”

PC Derek Woodward, a former Butlins Red Coat, said: "We have lots of time to make this a quality event and I like to provide the public with a living history experience that informs them about the police service.

“After retirement I attended a re-enactment and I suddenly discovered a whole new world of enjoyment and learning. I have met so many different interesting people who have become good friends. The public’s reaction to this event has been brilliant."

All pictures courtesy of Byron Calloway.