COLCHESTER’S medieval festival is back...with organisers promising it will be bigger and better than ever.

Colchester’s Medieval Festival and Oyster Fayre is to go ahead on the weekend of July 31 to August 1 in Lower Castle Park.

The festival, fair and market combines entertainment and history.

Entertainment will include one of the last standing Mummers plays in the country, puppeteers, birds of prey, sword fighting and storytelling.

A combat ring will allow armed fighters to display their skill.

Traditional medieval style food and drink will be available to sample as well as the oyster market.

Festival-goers can also try the famous vegan-friendly pottage.

Music on the day will be provided by the town’s musicians The Colchester Waits, a band dating back to the Middle Ages, as well as wandering musicians.

One of Britain’s largest medieval societies, the Medieval Siege Society will be there with its colourful marquees and living history exhibitions.

These marquees and exhibitions will be joined by an array of others.

Visitors can try their hand at archery, medieval cookery and games.

Guests will also be entertained by the world famous Archer of the Fayre competition.

Festival organiser Don Quinn said: “Colchester Medieval Fayre is unique in the region.

“We are utterly delighted to be able to put this magnificent event on for the public at last.

“History and fun with a good dash of excitement. Just think, one of Europe’s biggest medieval events right on our doorstep.”

The festival has to be cancelled last year due to Covid-19 restrictions.

The organisers, which have been running events for 20 years, made the decision not to hold the event saying they did not want the public feeling cheated in any way.

Everyone who had a ticket for last year was able to transfer it to this summer’s event.

Ticket prices are £8 for adults and £4 for children.

The events will take place from 10am to 5pm on July 31 and August 1.

Tickets can be purchased from www.foodanddrinkfestivalsuk.co.uk or on the gate.