The return of Fete d’Etai brought living history, traditional crafts and fun activities to the castle grounds. Jersey group The Duke’s Leopards set up a medieval camp, while live action role play group Tol Galen provided sword fights and displays of weapons and armour. With the addition of willow weaving, lucet braid-making, and dragon egg hunts – visitors were transported back through the centuries.
‘It makes history tangible,’ said Saul Williams-Reid, who has been involved in historical re-enactment since he was 18.
‘Bringing what you read in textbooks to life. The kids always love it.’
Among those adding medieval effect were Stephen King and Callum Tostevin-Hall, who arrived suitably-dressed for the occasion.
‘I made most of this myself. This helmet was made by a Canadian armourer. It’s a German-style, one-piece construction. And these are not tights, they’re hosens, standard leg wear of the 15th century. They’re lovely and comfortable – they’re wool, nature’s tech fabric, so I’m not feeling too warm at all,’ said Mr Tostevin-Hall.
Mr Tostevin-Hall is head of historic buildings for La Societe Guernesiaise, and travels to medieval events across Europe. He said the local fete provided a more relaxed opportunity to trial his historical kit.
‘It’s been wonderful,’ he said.
‘It's a fantastic atmosphere, lovely and busy, and great weather for it.’
You need to be logged in to comment.