English Heritage Seeks Young William and Harold for 1066 Re-Play

 Youngsters with an eye on the throne of England are being sought to take on the roles of William, Duke of Normandy and King Harold, to lead their troops in a junior re-enactment of the Battle of Hastings on its anniversary in October.

Wannabe Norman and Saxon royals are invited to ‘audition’ for the roles at a weekend Boot Camp, being held at Battle Abbey in East Sussex on Saturday August 4 and Sunday August 5.

The titles are up for grabs for girls and boys who complete a selection of knightly skills available at the Boot Camp – including archery, weaponry skills, drilling and hobby-horse racing.  They can also learn all a budding King or Duke needs to know about armour and battle tactics and they can hone their leadership skills in a carefully orchestrated mock battle.

Potential Duke Williams and King Harolds must also tell English Heritage which leader they want to portray – and explain why – for the chance to lead their young troops into the junior battle which will take place alongside the annual Battle of Hastings re-enactment at Battle Abbey on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 October.

Harold will be ‘crowned’ by English Heritage after the Boot Camp and given unlimited free entry to Battle Abbey until they relinquish the throne to William in October - the crown and free entry to the site until the end of the year will then pass to William.  Both royals will receive an authentic costume to wear and will be given VIP status at the Battle of Hastings re-enactment event - as befits their regal status – including a behind the scenes look at authentic Norman and Saxon life.

There are special prizes for children under eight who take part in the Boot Camp fun, but only those aged eight and over can apply for the chance to portray William or Harold.

Boot Camp activities take place from 10am to 5pm each day.  Normal admission prices apply of £6.30 for adults, £4.70 for concessions and £3.20 for children.  A family ticket is available at £15.80.  Admission is free for English Heritage members.  1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey & Battlefield, (Tel: 01424 773792) is located at the south end of Battle High Street, TN33 0AD.