THE clash of lance on shield and the pounding of horses' hooves enraptured more than 3,000 visitors as a medieval jousting tournament took place in Essex over the weekend.
THE clash of lance on shield and the pounding of horses' hooves enraptured more than 3,000 visitors as a medieval jousting tournament took place in Essex over the weekend.
With glinting armour and colourful coats of arms, six knights took part in the contest which was held in the fitting setting of Cressing Temple's ancient grounds.
Spectators watched a stunning display of horsemanship and nerve as the Earl of Warwick and the mysterious Black Knight ducked and titled in a dramatic duel.
There were also displays form the Medieval Siege Society while Napoleonic and Saxon times were also celebrated.
Sheila Hemmings, manager of Cressing Temple, said: “The weekend was really busy and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.
“As well as the jousting there was a stilt-walker with a puppet, a 'one-man-battle', a medieval market with armour, arrows and shields.
“There were also various encampments illustrating various periods. Cressing Temple has been inhabited for 900 years, and it seemed to bring the past all back to life.”
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