Jousting Tournament
The tournament was primarily for families with children. The kids really enjoyed it. They could have their picture taken with the knights and the king; they could also participate in the tournament by being recruited to the king’s army – not forgetting the many fine treats to be had.
Hopefully the few pictures below can convey a little of the flavour of the day.
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Henry VIII (aka Mike Farley) has arrived early to ensure that everything is prepared properly and the joust is run according to the rules.
Henry is satisfied. Behind him you see the castle and on the right Maiden's Tower, which Henry built for Catherine of Aragon's Maids in Waiting .
Some of the troup relaxing before the tournament.
The horses can have a little relaxation too.
The children take the opportunity to have their picture taken with the knight while the parent look on indulgantly.
Entrance of the Lord with his entourage.
The Lord
The Knights
Arrival of the red knight
Arrival of the blue knight
Entrance of the children carrying the tools of combat.
Some of the more dangerous weapons of combat.
The children examining the decapitated Saracen heads.
The recruited children swear allegiance to the king.
Hail to the Lord! Let the tournament commence!
Last instructions
Chaaarge!
Missed!
Clash!
Triumph and Defeat
Knocked off
Mercy! The spectators were rather bloodthirsty but the Lord was merciful and saved his life.
One of the pages got cheeky and started mocking the knights...
... They bundled him in a sack and dragged him around the arena to teach him a lesson.
The knights depart. The tournament is finished. The crowd disperses. ... And a good time was had by all!