Gladiators clashed at a Canvey school as history came alive at an open day for youngsters.

The event was held for future students at Cornelius Vermuyden school in Dinant Avenue.

They were given an insight into the past when fighters from Britannia, a re-enactment society, fought out historic battles between the Saxons and Normans in front of enthralled parents and children.

The highly-trained members of the group also starred as extras in the hit movie Gladiator released earlier this year and after the mock clashes were on hand to talk to the students about their work.

Several other interactive events took place on the day including Islamic art, fitness testing, surveying, face make-overs, and the creation of hi-tech Christmas cards.

Organiser Martin Horn said: "This was our most crowded and successful open day ever.

"The fact that we had so much planned is a testimony to the excellent educational opportunities that are offered at Cornelius Vermuyden."

A spokesman for Britannia said: "We enjoyed our day."

Ready for battle - Brian Dowling, Jamie Fuller, Mandy Hammond and Chelsea Turner get battle tips from Ian Weston

Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.