Thousands attend the Festival of History 2007

Fighter planes from World War One, artists from the fifth century, a knights' jousting tournament and a life-sized Tudor village were some of the highlights at this year’s Festival of History as nearly 20,000 people visited the show over the weekend.

Dramatic events from the past 2,000 years were featured, including a wartime trench, living history displays, and re-enactments of key battles from the past.

Sue Hudson, from Wootton Fields, in Northampton, visited the show on Saturday with her six-year-old son Joe. She said: "It was a great day out because there was so much to see.

"The kids seemed to enjoy it so I think we will definitely come again."

Archaeology enthusiast Brendan Paul, from Thrapston, and his 18-year-old daughter Stephanie went along to get valuations on some artefacts they discovered.

Mr Paul said: "There is always something to learn here, so it's a good place to come for anyone who is interested in history and archaeology. We have been three times now because it is so big. You can never get round it all and it just helps to bring everything to life."

One of the most popular displays at the festival was a live re-enactment of life in the trenches during World War One, while nine fighter planes from the period stunned crowds with an aerobatic display.

Nine-year-old Lucy Jamieson and her brother Kieran, eight, from Northampton, both said the planes were the highlight of the event. Lucy added: "I liked seeing all the soldiers marching past as well, and all the characters."

Courtesy of Northampton Chronicle & Echo

You can see pictures of the Festival of History in the Photo Gallery.