The days of merry olde England came to life as crowds flocked to Witham medieval fair.

The fair, held at St Nicholas Church, Chipping Hill, Witham, on Saturday, raised funds for the upkeep of the church including installation of a pipe organ and redecoration of the church roof.

Stallholders selling plants, books and home-made ice cream tempted the tastebuds while Witham Army Cadets gave young and old the chance to try their hand at airgun target practice.

Chipping Hill was closed to traffic for the afternoon allowing a demonstration of modern dance from the Demar School of Dance and traditional maypole dancing from pupils of Powers Hall Junior School.

Inside the church visitors were treated to an art exhibition from four Witham primary schools and music from Howbridge Junior School Guitar Band.

The Colchester Historical Enactment Society provided a medieval flavour throughout the day, culminating in a recreation of a battle between Saxons and Normans to end the day.

Witham mayor Paul Heath said: "The fair is always well attended, but a lovely sunny day really brings out the crowds. It was a great day all round, really superb."

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