COLCHESTER’S medieval festival returned to town this weekend with hundreds turning out to enjoy the event.

Colchester’s Medieval Festival and Oyster Fayre took place in Lower Castle Park.

The festival, fair and market combines entertainment and history.

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

A combat ring allowed armed fighters to display their skill.

Traditional medieval style food and drink was also available to sample as well as the oyster market.

Festival-goers could try the famous vegan-friendly pottage.

Music on the day was 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 was also there with its colourful marquees and living history exhibitions.

Visitors were able to try their hand at archery, medieval cookery and games.