Would-be Roman warriors are looking forward to the re-enactment of the year as those regimented Romans invade Durham County Council’s Binchester Fort again.
The weekend of July 14 and 15 promises not to disappoint with the Celts and Romans back at loggerheads at the popular attraction near Bishop Auckland. Alongside the re-enactments will be a host of historical treats too, with an exhibition of artefacts recently excavated on site and displays of ancient crafts and sports.
Members of the press are invited to attend the Roman Festival at Binchester Roman Fort any time between 11am and 2pm on Saturday July 14 and Sunday July 15.
The council’s head archaeologist, David Mason, sets the scene with a tour of the site before allowing battle to commence. He said:  “This is history at its best. The weekend festival provides a vivid and exciting insight into real Roman times. It’s a must for the young and young at heart; with everything from artefacts excavated on site to Roman horseback riding displays by Barbaratus, not forgetting of course the battle royal!”
The programme of events begins at 11.00am both days and is then repeated at 2.30pm and includes demonstrations of archery, slingstones and the firing of the bolt-firing catapult known as the ballista.
Admission charges are £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children and concessions.
The re-enactment will be carried out by Roma Antiqua along with The Celts and elements of Legio IX accompanied by Barbaratus the Roman cavalryman. Members of Durham County Council archaeology department and the archaeological services of Durham University will also be on hand.