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Centurion Corner

About the Guard

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The ESG has attended this event since it was first conceived. Kelmarsh Hall is near Market Harbourough and is a popular event with the public. Held over two days, the event is a multi-period event that draws big crowds. This year Kelmarsh was special for the Roman era as multiple groups from England and groups from France and Holland had joined together to turn out a full centuary of Roman soldiers.

Kelmarsh has a reputation for having very unpredictable weather, and this year was no exception. The Century of Romans marched out of a wooded glade at the top of the display area to appear coming over a rise in front of the public. Just as the formation stopped in front of the audience the heavens opened, sending a good half of the assembled crowd scattering for shelter, whilst the die-hards amongst the audience stayed to watch the drenched Romans display.

Despite the weather (which was consistantly bad for the rest of the first day) the two displays given on Saturday by the massed Romans went well and gave the appreciative audience a taste of Roman fighting tactics and displayed the power of the various Roman artilliary pieces on display. Each day is finished with a grand parade where the public gets to see all eras parade infront of them together.

All re-enactors like to party and the beer tent that night was packed with re-enactors from all periods. Romans drinking alongside Hussars and 2nd World War soldiers lends a surreal atmosphere to the whole event. But it doesn't stop them enjoying each others company, often to the cost of a less energetic display the next morning by some of the more determined revellers.

The event is spread over a very wide area and the public will have done well if they manage to see everything in one day. The re-enactors also have large distances to cover and are on display to the public for long hours. These weekends, whilst enjoyable, can be very gruelling and at the end of the weekend both audience and re-enactor alike are ready for home.

Another fun-filled, entertaining and successful event hosted by English Heritage

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