ARMOURITIS: MAD ABOUT ARMOUR!
Eastnor’s collection of over 50 suits of armour is the second largest privately-owned collections in Britain. Charles, 3rd Earl Somers of Eastnor, who collected the armour in the mid nineteenth century was susceptible to what he jokingly called ‘armouritis’, a nasty and incurable disease that gave him an obsession for collecting armour! David Edge, Head of conservation for Arms and Armour at The Wallace Collection, will be offering fascinating talks and tours of the famous Eastnor collection on both days.
In addition, there will be displays of combat in a purpose built arena and armour making demonstrations. There will be a large living history camp in the grounds with soldiers, a knight on horseback, musicians, entertainers, falconry, medieval cookery and dancing. One of the highlights of this new event will be spectacular and noisy displays of canons and firearms with The Kinge's Ordinaunce group. There will also be a fascinating display of armour used in Film and television. Norton Armoury, run by David Cubbage, is based in converted farm buildings on the Eastnor estate and makes modern replica armour for collectors and film productions. Recent work includes armour for Gladiator, Alexander and Troy. Sir Dean, Eastnor’s very own stilt walking knight will be entertaining children throughout the weekend and local film and TV make-up artist, Max Van de Banks will be on hand to paint gory war wounds on brave young knights! Following a recent competition in The Malvern Gazette, one lucky child will also have the chance to have their Coat of Arms design expertly painted onto a shield, and will then take part on a mock battle with a real knight in the combat arena! Eastnor’s usual attractions will also be available, including the fabulous Knight’s Maze, Adventure Playground, Nature and TreeTrails, Woodland and Lakeside Walks and a Pig Roast will be serving delicious hot pork rolls. |
