Medieval fair a hit with visitors

Record-breaking numbers of fun-seekers from around the UK - including a party of more than 300 from London - descended on Ludlow for a taste of medieval times.

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Ludlow's annual medieval fair was a big hit when it took place on Saturday and yesterday, with more than 13,000 people attending.

Prue Dakin, organiser, said today that attendance at this year's event was much higher than last year. She added that visitors had a lot of fun.

She said: "The attendance was definitely up on last year. "We had 13,000 people in 2006, but this year's crowd was even larger.

"We are still calculating the exact figure, but it will be higher than last year. It was a wonderful event and people had a lot of fun.

"We are delighted with how well it went."

People descended on Ludlow from far and wide for the fair, including more than 300 people who had been brought on a special train from London.

Among the giants, jesters, knights and musicians, there was also a charity collection for the firefighters benevolent fund.

The fair, which takes place in the grounds of Ludlow Castle, was launched eight years ago and officials say it has gone from strength to strength.

Mrs Dakin, who helped launch the event with castle custodian Helen Duce, said: "It was absolutely fantastic and we were amazingly lucky with the weather.

"There were lots of people who came and the special train which brought people from London for the day was brilliant.

"There was masses going on with lots of people. We also have a collection for the firefighters benevolent fund following the terrible fire in Warwickshire.

"The event is really good for the town. The town itself was busy also, which is wonderful.

"That's what we want and we hope it gets the town off for a good start to the Christmas season."

By Rachael Lowe and Andy Richardson

Hundreds of visitors to the medieval Christmas fair explore stalls within the picturesque grounds of Ludlow Castle.

Meeting brother Sid and his guardian were

Caitlin Wilson, seven, and sister Phoebe, five.

Selling toys were, from left, Lyn Sellwood,

Pippa Geddes and Caroline Taylor.

Caron Reen selling berry wreaths for Christmas.

Visitors have a look around the many stalls