Castle visitors taken back to medieval days

VISITORS to Castle Cornet could have been forgiven for thinking that they had travelled back in time at the weekend.

The High Summer Festival saw the castle transported to medieval and Tudor times as people in period dress wandered around casually.

A children's costume contest proved a highlight.

Youngsters dressed as peasants and princesses lined up to be judged by Miss Guernsey Natalie Thoumine.

John-Luc Nicole, 6, was one of four winners and cut an impressive figure as Robin Hood.

With his father's help he had made his own bow and arrows.

Lin Batchelor, 30, whose daughter, Leya May, 6, also won with her Maid Marian costume, said she had been excited about the competition all day.

'We come up every year. The children love it.'

Other activities included archery, a garden tour and sword fighting.

Medieval re-enactment group Tol Galen demonstrated armour and weapons to tourists.

'It's been a really good turn-out,' said member Sarah Le Conte, 22.

'The children have enjoyed it and the crowds were cheering during the foot combat tournament. People have been very interested in the show and tell.'

Visitor Ceinwen Conlan, 43, said her family had enjoyed the day. 'It's been terrific, it's really interesting and good value for money. People have gone to a lot of effort.'

The event on Sunday finished with Tol Galen performing hand-to-hand combat.