Form I and II pupils at Monmouth School stepped back in time recently to take part in a re-enactment of the Battle of Hastings.

On a count back of survivors it was evident that, as in 1066, the Viking forces of Harold Hardrada were vanquished at Stamford Bridge.  Only 4 of the initial 45 Norsemen survived the bloodletting on Bigside, despite some impressive efforts by a hard core of berserkers!  The unlucky Saxons saw 12 House carls limp from the fray, axes and spirit broken by the ferocity of the encounter, their leader Harold Godwinson slain.  As on that fateful October day in 1066, it was William the Conqueror’s Normans that emerged victorious, although not without having suffered terrible casualties.  Only 13 Norman Knights lived to enjoy the spoils of war and impose a feudal system on us all.

Headmaster Dr Steven Connors said, “The re-enactment of the events of 1066 was a terrific success, with thanks going to staff and the VI form ‘gods’.  The boys of form I and II also deserve great credit for their behaviour, and also the quality of their weaponry and armour which was no doubt inspired by the visit of the Birmingham Guild of Student Battle Re-enactors the week before.”