The Battle of Nantwich & Winter Fayre’

 

Reporter Jonathan White

The Battle of Nantwich & Winter Fayre’ took place in and around Nantwich town centre and on Mill Island on Saturday 25th January 2014. The event is organised by The Holly Holy Day Society - http://www.battleofnantwich.co.uk - in association with the Sealed Knot re-enactment society.

Holly Holy Day traces back to the 17th century and the four year long first English Civil War between Parliamentarians (Roundheads) and the Royalists (Cavaliers) loyal to Charles I. This year is the 370th anniversary of the original battle, which took place on 25 January 1644. It is the 42nd time the re-enactment has taken place.

There was also a wreath-laying ceremony at the war memorial to commemorate people who died in the Civil War Battle of Nantwich and other battles. The 1644 battle was re-enacted on Mill Island and was followed by a prize-giving ceremony of the Rose Bowl for the best regiment, which this year was won by the Earl of Manchester's Regiment.

Other related events included a Farmers Market, face painting, a Living History demonstration, 17th century music, a horse parade, street entertainment, a book signing, a pillory re-enactment, Redshift Radio, X-Academy, Nantwich Players, Morris dancers, Civil War Tours, and a musketry demonstration.

Despite heavy rain, with a spell of thunder, lightning and hail, the day was enjoyed by thousands of people.

 

I have uploaded all my photographs to Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jonathanawhite/sets/72157640173362394/