THE Battle of Fulford will be re-enacted this weekend on playing fields where the fighting is believed to have actually happened.

Sunday marks the 943rd anniversary of the battle on York’s outskirts, which preceded the better-known Battle of Stamford Bridge and Battle of Hastings, which eventually led to the Norman conquest of Britain.

A series of family-friendly events is being planned to help people find out more about the battle and have some fun along the way.

On Saturday, the parish council has organised an art, craft and history event at Fulford Social Hall for pupils from years 4, 5 and 6 at St Oswald’s CE Primary School. The event, which begins at 10am, will feature games, shield-making, and a history of the battle provided by local history group, History Alive.

The following day, local historian Chas Jones will be leading a re-enactment of the battle on Fordlands Road playing field, said to be the site of the original battle in 1066.

Fulford councillor Keith Aspden, who has helped to organise the events, said it was important to commemorate the battle which played such a significant role in British history.

“Often people forget about the Battle of Fulford, as it has been overshadowed in history by the battles that followed at Stamford Bridge and Hastings. However, the events in at Fulford played a big role in shaping the outcome of those two battles and ultimately the future of the country.”

Chas said a tent displaying finds from the battle and selling books and a CD would open at 10am.

He said the army would muster at 10.45am, with some shields provided for children to form a shield wall for the re-enactment.

“At 11am, the story of the battle will be re-enacted on the playing fields which lie at the heart of the 1066 battle.”

At noon, a battlefield walk around the site will take place, with various activities continuing on the field.

At 2pm, the Battlefield Trust is organising a guided tour round Stamford Bridge departing from Fulford.