Civil war foes battle it out in York (From York Press)

Civil war foes battle it out in York

10:57am Monday 31st August 2009 in

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CAVALRYMEN charged across York’s Knavesmire as a bloody chapter in England’s history was brought back to life.

More than 1,000 history enthusiasts from all over Europe descended on York to re-enact the English Civil War Battle of Marston Moor, which took place in 1644 to the west of the city.

The one-and-a-half hour spectacle – which is thought to be York’s biggest battle recreation to date – was put on by the Civil War re-enactment organisation, The Sealed Knot.

Hundreds of spectators turned out to watch the display, with all proceeds from the event going to the British Legion Poppy Appeal.

For those who missed yesterday’s re-enactment, there will be another chance to see the show at 2.30pm today.

Assistant event organiser Rachel Lacy said: “The first day was absolutely brilliant. We had members from all over the country, and even Germany, come to York to put on this show for everybody. The weather wasn’t that kind to us, but it didn’t put people off coming to watch and at least 1,000 people turned out.

“It is easy to forget how much the Civil War affected our lives – it completely changed the governance of our country, but it’s not taught much in schools. This is a fun way for people to learn about it.”

The two-day event on Knavesmire is the climax to York’s ten-day English Civil War Festival, which has seen a host of events take place across the city.