We were engaged by English Heritage for three days over the late May bank holiday. The Group was allocated the beautiful and secluded location of the archery range. The idea from English Heritage was that that visitors would happen upon us whilst exploring the gardens and then un-expectantly be taken back in time. As we were the only group in this location we could be, as usual, totally authentic and indulge in creative living history without any modern distractions.
The scenario was that we, as invasion trained troops, were being used as instructors for a course on irregular warfare. Our task was to give introductory lectures on the subjects that the students would be trained upon. At the same time of we were to assess the student’s suitability as recruits for the Special Operations Executive.
Lectures, mostly lasting about half an hour, were given on a wide range of topics. The lectures covered explosives, weapons, first aid, codes and ciphers, ‘know your enemy’, memory tests and unarmed combat. The students (portrayed by members of the group) entered into the spirit of the event, especially the ladies who were soon trying things they had not had opportunity to do before. The sight of the ladies at the firing point was almost as pleasing as their participation in the un-armed combat.
The weather stayed very pleasant and undoubtedly the unbroken sunshine over the three days helped make the event a great success. All participants did a great job and we now have another winning scenario to add to our repertoire.
Report by David Cooper
More photos from this event can be seen here.
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