MEDIEVAL WEDDING
We hired Ash and Dave for our wedding, with the help of Ian.
The knights gave us 110%! They taught us how they armored up, how to sword fight, how to pole-arm fight, and put on quite the show! We fought with halberds and billhooks, and took many, many photos. They got stuck in with the guests, greeting them at the entrance like royal guards and answering all their questions.
As bride and groom, we were beyond thrilled, and couldn’t have asked for more from such engaging, interesting and friendly entertainers.
Will recommend their services to anyone looking to hire knights!
Kind regards,
Adam & Faith
VOLUNTEERING WITH BLACK KNIGHT
My life in the “Black Knight” army
My experiences with this Living History team are truly magical. Black Knight Historical (BKH)is a professional, highly knowledgeable group of people, organising fantastic events, school experience days, birthday parties and so on.
I met with Ian Pycroft and Molly Housego in 2018, when we moved up to Norfolk from London. The first event I was invited to join them was in November in 2022. It was a Victorian themed weekend at Belvoir castle. I remember that I was so excited, and I could not believe when I got the invitation, as ever since I met with Ian and Molly, I was following the BKH’s Facebook page, quietly admiring their work and dedication to detail and the high quality they are representing all those people from the past.
I was very nervous for many reasons when I first joined in. As English is my second language, I was worried that if I could be good enough to maintain their quality of work, not to mention the lack of experience I had in reenacting. My fears melted away with time, as I was involved in different events.
BKH has a wide range of periods that they bring back to life. From stone age to WWII, I nearly tried every era. I prefer to play a low class servant. I constantly learn something new at every single event, just by listening to conversations. I am in the process of mastering cooking skills on open fire and experiencing recipes from the past. I found my place in historical kitchens next to the fire, with a wooden spoon in my hand. I always believed that the Victorian era was the most fascinating period in history, but since I’m working with the BKH, I realised that it has much more in British history than tight corsets and floaty petticoats.
The knowledge that the team members of BKH possess, and the passion they represent the various eras inspires me to know more about everything. I am feeling more motivated than ever before, because being a team member of this great organisation makes me feel appreciated and valued. I could talk about my wonderful and positive experiences for ages, but I force myself to focus on only two occasions when I felt proud and unspeakable happiness.
The first is, when I got my sew on patches with the BKH logo on them, so I became an official member. I will hug this memory close to my heart forever, because you might say it’s nothing, but for me it was a huge and long longed for happening. I only mention the other occasion on the second place, because I want to talk about it a little bit longer.
It was in January 2025. We lived in 1461 for nine full days. We had no modern technology to use in our daily life, not even glass panels in the windows. The event took place at Weald and Downland Living Museum. I found it difficult to believe that I was really chosen to be involved in this project. It was an ultimate life changing experience, something that I was always waiting for. Our time in the North Cray was incredible. It was challenging, some days were hard, but I learnt a lot about myself, about my body and it was a mind reset too. I just loved every single minute of it, especially when I could play with our little portable bread oven. Every dish we cooked were real experimental meals as we used original recipes from a cookbook that was kindly made by Ian.
I would have lots of stories to share about this event but let me tell you about what I enjoyed the most. It started just like every other event, we set up the scene and had a back story, which involved serious historical research from every team member, and we had the opportunity to share the chores between us and everyone could practice their own skill. As we settled more and more in our new routine, everything came naturally, and we started to work as a real 15th century household. Everyone contributed to running the house smoothly, everyone knew what to do without telling them. The evenings were magical, sitting around the fire chatting away, discussing pretty much everything. I loved listening to the conversations while making breadcrumbs for the cooking the next day. Working together with Molly and Marian in the kitchen was amazing. I found the dynamic so fascinating in the house. Somehow everyone kept themselves to their roles and it not even once felt forced or pretended.
I could fill many pages talking about this incredible experience, but I stop myself here and finish with the best part of this past life adventure. We stepped into North Cray as friends, and we left as a family. I made many new friends, and I learned a lot of new skills. I was unbelievably happy there and found it difficult to ease back into the 21stcentury.
During my time with BKH so far, I was a Victorian servant, a medieval, Tudor and Elizabethan kitchen maid, a Jewish refugee from WWII, a YMCA tea hut volunteer from both WWI and WWII, but also a witch several times. Now I’m excited about our next event in Prescott when I will be taking up my favourite place in the camp kitchen. I enjoy the preparation before the events, the events themselves and the reviews we are getting from the clients and from the public.
The magic of BKH is the dedication to their work and the friendship and mutual respect to each other between the members. We’re all working together for our mutual goal, to give an unforgettable experience to the public. I feel lucky to be a part of it all. It’s a great way to relax and leave everyday life’s stress behind. Living history/ reenactment is my happy place and BKH is more than just a company I work for. It embodies friendship, history and organising skills, constantly applying knowledge, kindness, love and resilience to any periods they are working in.
With grateful thanks to Tilly for the kind words above
CANDLEMAS 1461, WEALD & DOWNLAND LIVING MUSEUM
I cannot praise the historical interpreters that make up Black Knight enough. For 9 days they lived in one of our Medieval houses, enduring several named storms with all the weather you associate with winter!
Throughout that time they engaged with the public on a professional level, made all the more special because of such a unique experiment and experience.
We cannot wait to welcome them back to Weald and Downland Living Museum again in the future. Their research, attention to detail and knowledge shows what excellent historical interpretation can be.
Aaron Baker [Museum]
Dear Ian,
An enormous “thank you” to you and your living history team for bringing a deeply fascinating glimpse of fifteenth century life in a late medieval middle class household to the Weald & Downland Living Museum, during this last week.
Although the Museum conserves and displays the building fabric of the North Cray medieval house with great dedication, it was your skilled re-enactment group that clothed it with the vivid reality of the sights, sounds, smells and experience of daily life in all its authentic human detail in as it would have been in 1461.
Museum attendance tends to be a bit sparse at this time of year so the members and public attracted by your display must have been a welcome addition to numbers for the week and we can only hope that we will see you next year to share “1461” with you once again.
With many thanks,
Bruce & Carole Haithwaite [visitors]
Chichester
CHILTERN OPEN AIR MUSEUM, HALLOWEEN EVENT 2024
Hi Ian
I hope that this finds you well and that you had an ok journey home. I just wanted to say a huge thank you for participating. It was an absolute pleasure having you all join us for our Halloween Spectacular last Friday. The professionalism, characterisation and enthusiasm of all of the Blacnite crew who joined us was fantastic. The wonderful characters you brought us together with the fantastically atmospheric RAF story were very welcome additions to our event.
I understand that the scarecrow was delayed getting to the event due to a blow out and still continued to join us – so very much appreciated!
Thank you for all of your help and support.
I look forward to receiving further information on what an Easter event may comprise of and an idea of cost over the four days. Talk soon
Best wishes
Michelle
Events Manager
FIRST WORLD WAR EVENT, HUNTINGDON
Hi Ian,
Just wanted to drop you a quick mail to say a huge thank you to all the team who came along and informed, entertained and engaged the good folk of Huntingdon (and many visitors to the town too from what I gather).
The World War I team provided a varied show that showed many aspects of the period and were great to work with over the weekend. Particular thanks go to Mollie and Tilly for the excellent tea hut, and to you and Steve for being such great sports with the borough committee sessions.
Please pass on my thanks to everyone and look forward to seeing you soon.
Best regards,
Stuart Orme
Curator
The Cromwell Museum
ANCIENT GREEK WORKSHOP
TUDOR BANQUET ENTERTAINMENT, HATFIELD HOUSE, HERTS
Hi Ian!
Please see below .
Ian and the Black Knight Historical team were absolutely amazing. Their attention to detail and knowledge was very reassuring should guests want to ask questions. They interacted with guests in their characters and provided the entertainment with the education. Thank you to the whole team for providing an excellent evening, we cannot wait to work with you again.
Please let me know if you need anything else.
Lucy, HHH.
At short notice, you delivered above and beyond to give our visitors, volunteers and staff a vivid glimpse of what life may have been like in this Medieval building around a specific baking/grain theme. Added to that you treated the Museum with respect and consideration and were a pleasure to have working alongside the Museum team.
TUDORS AT VALENCE HOUSE MUSEUM
Hello Black Knight Historical
On Saturday 3rd June I came to the Royals, Rascals and Ruffs at Valence House. I enjoyed the day immensley so because of the people who put so much effort into the tudor characters they were portraying. As well as being thorougly entertaining I found it very educational and was very impressed with the knowledge that the participants shared with the visitors.
I would like to say a special thank you to Will Somers who very kindly arranged for me to have an audience with Henry VIII and Cardinal Wolsey and to take photos, and also to Thomas More whose inuendos were hilarious. If you have a mailing list please could you add my details. [DETAILS SUPPLIED].
With kind regards, Mark [visitor]
HEDINGHAM CASTLE – EXCALIBUR SHOW
Hi Ian
A short n’sweet email
Here’s a few ‘google’ reviews for you…
“Visited the castle for the first time and can’t wait to go again :). Went to see the Excalibur event and it was a blast. Awesome atmosphere and so nice to see the public also get invited to join the show!
Came home with a sword and a great memory!
Looking forward to coming again on the 28th for the other knight shows!!”
“We visited here for the first time in ages for their Excalibur event. A really good day out – the actors were friendly – they posed for photos and happily battled the youngest member of our party too.
Just the right amount of stalls too – we left with a new sword and helmet. Great food stalls too ????”
“Top marks to everyone, especially the guys on the gate who looked after our bike gear and then waited for us to return before leaving the tent at the end. This place is best visited when they have an event like today’s medieval festival. Was a top day.”
“A fantastic day out at Hedingham Castle watching Excalibur. Joined in the archery, watched kings and knights fighting, saw and heard
storys of how the people lived in those days and wandered around the grounds solving, The Trail of Shields. A great family interactive day out rounded off by an ice cream.”
Sarah K,
Events manager, Hedingham Castle
PASTON FOOTPRINTS
Dear Ian,
Thank you — 5 Stars!
Ian is very knowledgabke about his subject areas and was able to expertly guide Castle Staff as to the reenactment events that would work best for the reopening of the Castle in June 2021 onwards.
TUDOR EDUCATIONAL DAY, BIRKENHEAD SCHOOL
Hi Ian
I just wanted to say thank you for the fun, interactive and informative day on the Tudors yesterday. The Year 8s really loved it and they especially enjoyed the dressing up as well as your gory explanation of what it meant to be hung, drawn and quartered. Your clothing and artefacts really brought the sessions to life and it was amazing to see the students so engaged for the entire day. They have been fulsome in their praise and already some of the older students have been complaining that we never invited you in to deliver a similar session to them when they were studying the Tudors. Clearly, little brothers and sisters have been spreading the news at home.
I have attached a video and one photograph. I am currently waiting on explicit permission from some of the parents and if given, I will be able to send a handful of photographs featuring a selection of our students.
Thanks again to both you and Molly. It was a pleasure to meet you and I am sure our paths will cross again.
Best wishes
Chris
https://www.blackknighthistorical.co.uk/best-school-workshops/
DUNSTER CASTLE, SOMERSET
Feedback from a lovely visitor on the National Trust comments card.
HALLOWE’EN ACTIVITIES – EUREKA KIDS MUSEUM, HALIFAX.
We were lucky enough to see Black Knight Historical at Eureka! Museum today. Absolutely fabulous!
Ian is a fountain of knowledge and I could have listened to him all day! My 9 year old is a very avid little historian and he absoluty loved listening to all the amazing and interesting things. I absolutely would have them do my son’s birthday party next year. Thank you so much!
Francesca Ashcroft
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PIRATES! FRED NICHOLSON SPECIAL SCHOOL, DEREHAM, NORFOLK
Dear Ian and Molly,
I just wanted to pass along thanks from all of us at Fred Nicholson school for the amazing experience you gave so many of our pupils today. It was lovely to see them all getting so much out if it. I will send on some photos when I have been through them but I just wanted you to know how much we appreciated it.
Claire.
ARTHURIAN LEGENDS, ESSEX CUB SCOUTS MEGA CAMP 2018
Dear Ian
Re: MegaCamp 2018
It seems rather surreal that only a week ago, I was standing alongside your majestic and energetic staff to welcome 1,600 Cubs to a wonderful weekend of Medieval Fun.
As Camp Chief, it was my vision that the Cubs in Essex would be transported to the most wonderful weekend of Scouting that they would treasure memories from forever. The Black Knight Historical Company played a crucial role in aiding me with this vision that was fulfilled to the highest possible standards.
It would be wrong of me to not mention individually, some of the most impressionable and professional staff that you have working for Black Knight Historical Company.
Morgana – what a marvellous lady. Molly ensured that the core team staff were dressed so smartly for the joust in front of the King. Our attire was fitting to the period and it was so kind of her to individually ensure each member of the team had wonderful costumes to wear. I was so impressed with her amazing versatile needlework when a holster was needed to aid the storyteller in his arena event. Thank you.
Sir Galahad – from when the Cubs adventure started on the Friday evening, Sir Galahad rose to the challenge and responsibility of leading a subcamp to the utmost highest standard. His interactions with the young people, professionalism and enthusiasm was simply outstanding – a very natural and gifted knight. Thank you.
Sir Percival – Percival subcamp were behind Sir Percival as soon as they were greeted on arrival to the camp. Sir Percival aided me to deliver a very special experience for one of our young leaders which I shall always be very grateful for. Again, Sir Percival was professional, fun and engaging with our young people – a real credit to your company. Thank you.
Sir Bors – what a wonderful character who engaged with the young people in an excellence manner. I shall not forget the look of awe on our Cubs faces, when greeted on arrival by Sir Bors. A superb knight who made our young people’s weekend by his enthusiasm and dedication. Thank you.
King Arthur – I felt humbled to be in the presence of the King and at times, I had to remind myself that it was not real. The knighting of the chosen few young people, is something that I shall remember forever. The young people that were picked were for a variety of personal reasons, and I know that the special time that you gave to them, will be a memory treasured forever. It was simply outstanding. Thank you.
Jousting/Horses – utterly mesmerizing. Fantastic displays that were delivered to the very highest standard. The jousting on Saturday night was breath-taking. The young people’s faces were in complete awe of what they were seeing. A very special thank you for making my vision complete.
Ian, it has simply been an absolute pleasure working with yourself to deliver an event that takes two years to orchestrate and manage. I cannot thank you enough for the presentation of an amazing Medieval village, arena events, greeting our young people and the overall professionalism of your company.
I do hope that I have the pleasure of working with you again because there is such a huge potential in your company, to deliver outstanding experiences to young people.
With kindest regards,
Sharon
Camp Chief
MegaCamp 2018 (Essex Cub Scouts)
VIKING SCHOOL DAY, SUTTON BRIDGE, LINCS
Hi Ian,
Just wanted to say a huge thank you to you once more for your visit the other day.
The kids haven’t stopped talking about it since getting back and loads of the parents were thrilled with the knowledge that they came home with!
Hope you had a good time visiting our school and hopefully we can get you in more for other history days!
Thanks again,
Sam
https://www.blackknighthistorical.co.uk/best-school-workshops/
LORD MAYORS RURAL & SEASIDE SHOW 2018, PORTSMOUTH
Dear Ian,
Thank you for coming along to the Lord Mayor’s Rural and Seaside Show 2018. You were an excellent addition to the show, and I was really pleased with the activities on offer, and that lots of families gave it a go, which is what it is all about!
Many thanks again and best wishes,
Sarah,
Events Officer.
ANT & DEC’S SATURDAY ‘K’NIGHT TAKEAWAY – ITV
Hi Ian,
I wanted to drop you an email to say thank you so much for your hard work and organising such a great team of knights.
Every one was extremely professional and a great pleasure to work with!
As discussed, I will send you some photos in April once the programme has been on air.
Thank you so much.
From all of us here at Saturday Night Takeaway!
Rosie
GLADIATORS! – Corporate Xmas Party, London. TESTIMONIAL
Hi Ian,
I just wanted to pass on that we had really great feedback from my client that booked 2 gladiators for the 13th December:
“Could you please let the guys know they did a great job on Wednesday, the feedback was positive and they got very involved with everyone and vice versa!
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.”
Thanks so much for your help with organising the booking and for your work on the night, and please pass on my thanks to Antonio too for the great work.
Wishing you all a lovely Christmas!
All the best,
Susanna [agent]
BLACK DEATH ACTIVITY DAY – St Alban’s Girls School.
Rachel
CARDINAL WOLSEY– COSTUMED INTERPRETATION, Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich
‘We had pictures with Wolsey and Anne’
‘Tremendous’
‘I now have a soft spot for him’
Only three more to go!
Best wishes,
Damian
MEDIEVAL Activity Day – Colby School, Norfolk TESTIMONIAL
Just wanted to say how well the medieval sessions went!
All targets met and children absolutely enthused by your delivery.
Please come and do Romans and Egyptians too!
We moved expertly from direct acquisition of knowledge to synthesis of understanding.
Really worthwhile and loved having you.
Children now love history. end of.
Mr G. Frost
Deputy Head
Colby Primary.
WORLD WAR II Activity Day – Curzon School, Derbyshire TESTIMONIAL
HERITAGE OPEN DAYS, NORWICH 2017 TESTIMONIAL
Thanks Ian. Very, very tired today but overall, we’re delighted with how the day went.
Please extend our gratitude to your excellent team. They were a credit to you. Friendly, knowledgeable and totally professional. Our visitors were enthralled by their tales. All the host venues that I’ve spoken to so far were very happy too. A great day for us all. We had some lovely comments left by children and parents when they reached the trail end…
“I think it was really fun. Everyone got to learn about history. Parents and children. I loved it!”
“We really enjoyed the trail and learnt a lot. Made history come alive’ – David, 4
Best wishes,
Cathy
Cathy Eden
Project Co-ordinator
The Forum Trust Limited, The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF
ST. GEORGE’S KNIGHTS SCHOOL – THE MARY ROSE TRUST at SOUTHSEA CASTLE
I will write at a later date about our wonderful few days in Gunwharf Quays and Southsea Castle and publicly share all the amazing work you have done but today I just wanted to write and personally thank each and every one of you. Thank you for the extraordinary work you did in sharing the Mary Rose message and furthering our brand through the dedication, passion and enthusiasm you all exude.
Every single interaction, be it putting on a costume, trying archery, hearing a talk, touching a piece of history (and many more) leads to a new ‘friend’ of the Mary Rose and a supporter which we will definitely rely in the years to come. The team from Black Knight Historical and our hosts at Gunwharf Quays and Southsea Castle were exceptional, ensuring we had very successful events.
I know you must have all been tired after such busy days but I hope you had fun too, I know I did.
Thank you and all the best,
James
Visitor Operations Manager
Mary Rose Museum
Portsmouth.
MEDIEVAL KNIGHTS. TOM BARNES/ PROFOTO/ THE PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW
Ian
Just wanted to drop you a quick note to say thanks for everything – Ed and yourself have been a pleasure to work with and everyone was really impressed – basically you smashed it !
I’ll be in touch asap once dust has settled but just wanted to say thanks!
TB
photographer
www.tombarnes.co
VIKING ACTIVITY DAY – WHAPLODE SCHOOL, LINCS.
Hi Ian
Just wanted to drop a quick message to thank you once again for such an amazing experience. To see all our pupils and staff so enthused by you and Molly’s input was very special. The head has already given approval for future visits so I’ll be in touch with regards to that soon!
It was great to see you again and look forward to having you back at Whaplode again soon. (Not another 8 yrs)
Take care,
Em
PRIVATE BANQUET ENTERTAINMENT. THE GREAT HOSPITAL, NORWICH
Hi Ian.
Just to say a big thank you for the fantastic entertainment you provided for my Dad’s party. My Dad had such a brilliant time, it really exceeded my expectations.
Please also pass on my thanks to Queen Elizabeth 1 – she looked amazing and really had the part down to a T. It was a great impact when she arrived as a surprise. And thanks to the musicians, they did a great job and we really enjoyed the dancing.
Thanks once again.
Best wishes.
Amy.
BERKELEY CASTLE
Dear Ian & Molly
It was great to work with Black Knight Historical in 2016. The King John re-enactment event over the August bank holiday was extremely successful and was thoroughly enjoyed by our visitors. We really appreciate the time you had taken to research the historical links between King John and Berkeley Castle, this proved to be extremely authentic, but very entertaining too.
We’ve also received excellent feedback following our recent Halloween event. The Black Knight ‘Witches and Wizards’ event was a really popular element of the whole experience, we were so impressed with the amount of historical equipment, you really transformed our cellars into a spellbound grotto!
It’s good to know that we already have you in the diary for next year, we look forward to working with you again in 2017.
With best wishes
Jackie Pennington
Operations Manager
The Berkeley & Spetchley Estates, Berkeley Castle,Gloucestershire, GL13 9BQ
BERKELEY CASTLE – KING JOHN EVENT
We were with you at Berkeley last weekend, Sunday.
You spent time with us talking swords, helmets and heritage. My daughter, the history grad, and all of us had a great time.
You are an examplar of what re-enactment and history education could and should be.
Thank you.
Bob & Family [visitors]
MEDIEVAL EVENT – KELHAM HALL, NOTTS
Dear Ian,
Just a quick note to say thank you for a great Medieval village display at our Jousting Event. Everyone enjoyed walking around the village, chatting to the villagers and watching the displays !
Jeremy, the jousting guy, even commented what a good idea the village was.
We have had good feedback and we are looking at the same for 2017.
Thanks again, Amanda
Kelham Hall
SIEGE FUN DAY FOR KIDS – COLCHESTER CASTLE. ESSEX
Hi Ian,
‘Black Knight were brilliant to work with, very well prepared and great with visitors’
Kind Regards,
Jessica Dowdell
Collections and Learning Curator
Colchester and Ipswich Museum Services
NEWMARKET 350 – The Guineas Festival – NEWMARKET RACECOURSE
Hi Ian
Thank you once again to you and Molly for your great work at the QIPCO Guineas Festival. It was great to be able to add that authentic bit of Newmarket history into the day’s proceedings. The enthusiasm you bring to the role is second to none!
Hopefully, there will be further opportunities in the future to work together again.
Kind regards
Louise
Events Marketing Executive
W: www.newmarketracecourses.co.uk
ERPINGHAM MEDIEVAL SPECTACULAR 1415, ERPINGHAM, NORFOLK
I am sure you have had plenty of positive comments but thought you might like to read this from an elderly friend of ours. Perhaps you could pass it onto the relevant people as an example of what people have been saying. Well one and thank you. Don’t know how you do it week by week! Perhaps we will repeat it in another 100 years time! Best wishes
Helen
‘Hi Helen
Congratulations on a splendid event – original, fascinating, varied, informative, well organised and fun! I was so wrapped up in the crafts of the various stalls on entering the first field that I totally forgot I had a programme and had to ask King Henry what was being planned and when… The tile making process was absorbing as the lady demonstrating was so clear, the problems of wearing armour a revelation and every stand had knowledgeable and obliging people to explain medieval ways. What an inspired thought to do this! I particularly loved the chance to sit down in the church and hear the Archer’s Tale – he really brought the experience alive. I did admire the new tapestry and noted the contributions of one Helen and one Clare… The archery demonstration really gave one a sense of the distance those arrows covered (especially following the Archer’s Tale) and the combat between the knights was thrilling to watch but one felt for the knight who received a blow in his unprotected back! The ‘French castle’ and music all added to the atmosphere and I’m sure many, like me, appreciated the work done on preparing the field so that it was surprisingly comfortable to walk on – not tussocky as at Blickling! You and your team of helpers did a great job – let’s hope you make plenty of money. Thank you so much – it was my first and probably only medieval spectacular. Good luck with the weather again tomorrow! Cheers
Mary’
AFTER DINNER SPEAKER- EAST ANGLIA CORONERS SOCIETY ANNUAL DINNER – ‘DRESSED TO KILL’.
Hi Ian
I wanted to say how much I and all of our party enjoyed your after dinner talk at the East Anglian Coroners’ Society Dinner on 3 July. It was such an interesting and lively talk. The fact we could all try on different bits of armour and handle swords and weapons really made the evening – our guests have not stopped talking about it!
Thank you so much!
Best wishes,
Jacqueline Lake
President EACS
SWAFFHAM 800 – MARKET CHARTER CELEBRATIONS. SWAFFHAM, NORFOLK
“Ian
Good afternoon.
I think I got round to each and everyone of your team on Sunday but just wanted to say once again a huge thank you to all concerned for coming to Swaffham and making our 800 celebrations such a huge success.
I hope that you all enjoyed the occasion as much as we and the visitors to Campingland did and without a doubt we will contact BKH again should we consider a similar enactment festival in the future.
Many thanks
David
Project lead, Swaffham 800 project.
AGINCOURT DAY. SOMPTING ABBOTTS PREP SCHOOL,SUSSEX
“Dear Ian, I just wanted to write to you a glowing testimonial following the excellent Agincourt day. My staff, employers and the children loved everything.
“We were lucky enough to book Black Knight Historical for a whole day to give our children a magnificent experience in our school grounds; they brought the medieval world of Agincourt to life. Everybody looked fabulous and was full of amazing information. Our children were taught so much about armour, a knight’s work and routine, cookery, the music of minstrels, falconry and archery.
Everything the consummately professional men and women of Black Knight Historical did for our school was fantastic and we cannot recommend them highly enough. Book them!
Stuart Douch BA MA
Headmaster, Sompting Abbotts.
FLAG FEN – BRONZE AGE ROUNDHOUSE PROJECT.
“Black Knight are doing a wonderful job rebuilding the Flag Fen Bronze Age roundhouse. They are taking a huge amount of trouble to ensure that everything is authentic. Even the clothes they wear would be familiar to someone passing by three thousand five hundred years ago.”
Dr Francis Pryor, MBE, FSA.
ELLINGTON & HERESON SCHOOL, RAMSGATE, KENT. WW1 EDUCATION DAY
“The day itself went extremely well.
Neil is a consummate professional and adapted well to different types of learners. I have had a number of positive pieces of feedback from staff who joined in the sessions, including one Maths teacher who commented that “it was the best outside provider I have ever seen”.
The theme of the Christmas Truce worked well and Neil also gave some good suggestions for enhancing our curriculum over a discussion we had at lunch. This is something I am keen to set up annually from now on if you are happy to make future arrangements.
The day left me feeling very happy, especially as our most challenging and disaffected students seemed to be the ones to get the most out of the session.
Tom Millard
Head of History.
WW1 SCHOOLS PROJECT, MUCH WENLOCK PRIMARY.
“The children had a great day. Sian and Mark were super.
The artefacts would be classed as excellent.
Some staff felt Edith Cavell was a bit slower paced but the feed back from children was excellent and they took in many facts.
Recruiting and drill was also good – but some children complained of cold – obviously we need to do a bit more on trench conditions so they can consider how lucky they are!
All were fascinated by the women in war and we have since referred to issues raised in that segment as relating to women today.
We choose to do the Princess Mary Tin and it was wonderful to show an actual tin, the children really liked this idea. I have gone on to do the embroidered postcards with my class which again were great.
The songs were useful to put in context and the video clips were fascinating.
Altogether, an excellent day that has concluded our topic beautifully”.
Innes Jameson
Much Wenlock Primary School
KING WILLIAMS COLLEGE, ISLE OF MAN. WW1 EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES
“I think the visit was a great success and has really kick-started our Centenary programme of events.
It was a tall order to provide activities to suit such a large age-range, but the feedback was positive and I think most of the pupils thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
Predictably, the more hands-on activities such as Tommy Atkins, Nurse Cavell and Captain Owens were very popular, particularly with the younger pupils as they love to get involved, dress up and handle equipment.
The hands-on research also fired the imagination of many pupils of all ages and we have a team of 13 Sixth formers ready to carry on what they started with Neil.
The poetry sessions were perhaps a bit difficult to pitch at the younger groups, although I think it was important for all years to have the experience, but again I had positive feedback from pupils who found it very emotive and Andy’s delivery very impressive.
All in all, the visit did a great job in raising awareness generally and giving the pupils a lot of useful information to help them understand the Centenary commemorations. I know my own daughter’s ears pricked up in recognition the other evening when V.A.D.s came up on a TV programme, thanks to Amanda’s presentation.
You can see photos from the visit on our Remembrance Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/KWCBuchanRemember
Many thanks to you all and best wishes
Alison.
PUBLIC TALK – MEDIEVAL TOPIC.
Dear Ian
On behalf of the ‘Union of Catholic Mothers’ they would likeme to say a ‘BIG’ Thank you , for your most interesting talk; also all the objects you produced. It was great fun that we could handle all your gooodies, but most of all to learn about them!
It was such a joy to meet you. Thank you for your most generous gift to the U.C.M..
I am quite sure I will be contacting you again.
Take Care, Rosemary Sheen. UCM
HETHERSETT VC JUNIOR SCHOOL, NORFOLK.
Hi Ian,
The children in both classes had a great day. We were very pleased with the way the sessions launched our study of the Iceni. They supported what we had already done and have given us something to constantly refer back to. I have shared your details with my colleagues and even the parents of of two of my pupils, who are also teachers at other schools in the area.
I have forwarded the invoice to our bursar so payment should be made shortly. She is very reliable!
Marc Harding, teacher.
BOURNE HALL MUSEUM KIDS CLUB, EWELL, SURREY
We have used Ian and Black Knight now for two years, for a wide number of events from the Bronze Age to date. They have always been totally professional in the way they operate and always willing to change their presentation to fit in with our needs or local history.
They are both factual and at the same time entertaining and very popular with our children’s club.
They have a number of female re-enactors which has made it possible to tell events from the female point of view.
I would recommend Blackknighthistorical to any museum or school.
David Brooks
IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM, DUXFORD.
Hi Ian,
Just a quick note to say that Simon was brilliant yesterday – a very nice chap and worked wonderfully well with our guests. Many thanks, and hopefully we can work together in the near future!
Best regards
Adam Kendall
Commercial and Public Events Manager
Imperial War Museum Duxford
Cambridge
PETERBOROUGH HERITAGE FESTIVAL 2014.
Black Knight Historical has worked closely with Vivacity Heritage this year, providing cost effective solutions to meet our event needs.
These have included providing Henry VIII and Katharine of Aragon, a World War II team and other characters as part of our annual Heritage Festival, helping deal with over 30,000 visitors in a weekend.
In contrast we have also worked closely with Ian and his team to develop an excellent and authentic Bronze Age impression to help populate Flag Fen, the country’s premier Bronze Age site, even helping to reconstruct a roundhouse for us.
As always they are professional, approachable and a pleasure to deal with.
Stuart Orme,
Events & Programmes Manager,
Vivacity Heritage,
Peterborough
MEDIEVAL SCHOOLS DAY. SOUTH WOOTTON INFANTS SCHOOL, KINGS LYNN, NORFOLK.
Hi Ian,
I just wanted to say a huge thanks to you for today. I’m sorry I missed you at the end of the day, I was on the phone to the newspaper first and then I got caught up in a colleagues exciting baby news (as you do!)
It really was a great day and the perfect way to come back after a holiday. I know the kids will be absolutely full of it tomorrow and I will pass on some of their work to you.
Thanks again and I am sure we will be in touch with you in the future.
Kindest regards
Rebecca
SPRING FAIR. BLICKLING HALL, NORFOLK.
What a brilliant event. Great interpreters, charming, engaging, and extremely knowledgeable. Blickling visitors were enthralled. Can’t wait for the next one!
Sue Price
Events Co-ordinator, Blickling Hall, [National Trust]
WORLD WAR 1 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES. CASTLEDYKE PRIMARY SCHOOL, BARTON ON HUMBER, LINCS.
Many thanks for today. The staff were all very impressed and the children are buzzing.
Hopefully tomorrow we will get some real quality writing about their experiences. I am sorry I missed you but hope you had a safe journey home. I bet you are exhausted.
Once again thank you so much for an inspiring day and we hope to see you again in the future perhaps as an Eqyptian!!!!!
Carolyn Smith
EDUCATIONAL SERVICES. PARK LANE SCHOOL, WHITTLESEY.
Once again Black Knight came into our school and delivered an amazing array of activities linked to history topics about the Egyptians, Tudors and Victorians. The children thoroughly enjoyed the experiences they encountered as a result of Black Knight’s visit and we’re sure this is something they will remember for many years to come.
Black Knight staff demonstrated a wealth of knowledge on their particular topic and were able to deliver interactive, meaningful learning experiences for the children.
We look forward to welcoming Black Knight into our school in the future.
The Park Lane Teachers
ROMAN & ICENI SCHOOL DAY. FRED NICHOLSON SCHOOL, EAST DEREHAM, NORFOLK
April 2, 2014
Thanks to you all for a great day – the kids really enjoyed it and all staff were impressed. I especially liked the buy one get one free offer on celts 🙂
We invited Black Knight Historical to come and present their Roman Day activities to our children, and they offered to bring Queen Boudicca too. This was great – as we were able to run two activities simultaneously, twice as many children were involved. The kids loved it, and had a great day learning what it was like to serve in the Roman army or to live in an Iron age iceni village.
All the staff involved were very impressed and are keen to use Black Knight’s services again for other history projects.
Mr Lewis
Class Teacher – Fred Nicholson Special School
TUDOR SCHOOL DAY. KINGSWOOD PREP SCHOOL, BATH
November 22nd, 2013
“It has been four years since Black Knight Historical first visited our school to entertain the Y5 children with life about the Tudors and every year it has been one of the highlights of the year for all the children involved.
Black Knight arrive on the day with a huge array of authentic Tudor artefacts and a wealth of knowledge between them. The day then unfolds with ‘King Henry’, in sumptuous costume, coming into the school hall and addressing his ‘loyal subjects’.
The rest of the day consists of workshops, Tudor dance and ends with the firing of a musket! The experience is informative, exciting and most of all, great fun!”
M D -Kingswood Prep School, Bath
PIRATES & THE BIG DRAW, TIME & TIDE MUSEUM, GREAT YARMOUTH
October 31st, 2013
Ian, Just wanted to say a huge thank you for a great job done by you and all the costumed characters last week and of course the wonderful Band of Pirates! Please pass my thanks on to everyone.
Please also thank the band for the Chuffinches cd. I absolutely love it!
See you all again soon.
Best wishes,
Suzie.
Events Officer
Time And Tide Museum
Blackfriar’s Road
Great Yarmouth
NORMANS & CASTLE EXPLORATION, WICKLEWOOD PRIMARY at CASTLE RISING
October 7th, 2013
I would like to thank you for a fantastic day at Castle Rising. You successfully brought history to life for the children and they were thoroughly engaged and excited by the activities. Your excellent subject knowledge and historical artefacts really added to the learning and the children have already demonstrated a deeper understanding of castles and knights back in the classroom. I sincerely hope that we will be able to utilise your expertise again in the future.
Neil Allard
Teacher
Wicklewood Primary.
WW1 SCHOOL DAY, THE SANDRINGHAM SCHOOL, ST. ALBANS
September 27th, 2013
Good morning Neil
I had a lovely email to start the day with today. Please see below the comments from Sandringham. I cannot thank you enough for making it a success. I will be in touch once they confirm the date for next year.
I just wanted to give my thanks for the excellent day we had yesterday with ‘Private Tommy Atkins’ (Neil Storey!).
It was an excellent presentation that significantly added to the quality of the learning the students received – the feedback from the students has been nothing short of exceptional. Neil had the students in the palm of his hand all day – I could hear a pin drop on many occasions.
We would be delighted to invite Neil back to deliver a similar session next year and I will be in touch as soon as I can confirm dates for the advanced booking!
Thank you to the team at Anglia Tours for the excellent experience.
Many thanks,
Thom
Rachel Chilton
Tour Coordinator
Anglia Tours Limited.
TUDOR SCHOOL DAY, COLTISHALL PRIMARY
September 10th, 2013
Thanks so much for a great day, we were exhausted but happy!
It was money well spent! I would have definitely invite Black Knight in again, you were both extremely knowledgable and the costumes and artefacts were awesome. Thank you.
Hayley
RAF OULTON TRIBUTE, BLICKLING HALL, NORFOLK
September 1st, 2013
Hi Ian
Just to say thank you so much for yesterday, please pass on my gratitude to all your crew who were, as usual, fantastic. It was a great day with a lovely feel which we passed on to our visitors who were very positive about it. We had more people than last year; 1200 which is going in the right direction to build the event into a weekend.
Sue
SPITFIRES, MERLINS & MOTORS EVENT, I.W.M. DUXFORD
July 28th 2013
Testimonial
I was extremely pleased with the interactive RAF Ground Crew display that was provided for our recent Spitfires, Merlins and Motors event by Black Knight Historical. The guys were busy with visitors throughout the day and really helped to provide context and capture their imaginations. The quality of the equipment and the engagement with visitors was second to none.
Louise Wood
Events Officer
IWM Duxford
Cambridgeshire
CB22 4QR
QUILL & PARCHMENT DAY, LACOCK ABBEY
July 7th 2013
Hi Ian
Two lovely comments here –
I have attended many events, different venue, but have never felt so engaged, found so interesting or learned so much as today with Quill and Parchment. Well done. Please come again.
Fantastic, came specifically to see the medieval book/manuscript making. All of the people were immensely knowledgeable – not only of the subject but of the whole period. I would definitely come again of this group comes back.
Well done.
So, my quote.
Black Knight Historical visited us to demonstrate medieval book making. From the very start, the demonstrators were on a roll, totally engaging visitors in the various trades and skills. It was great to watch as groups of people went from person to person and the looks of interest on faces.
There was no fuss or bother during the set up and take own and Ian made sure to consult me that I was happy at various points throughout the day.
Rachael Holtom
Visitor Experience Officer
Lacock Abbey
EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS, CASTLE RISING
June 11th 2013
We had a wonderful day at the castle and the Black Knight experience really enhanced the day. On arrival a Norman soldier met us at the gates speaking his ‘mother tongue’ in true keeping with the period.
The children were buzzing with anticipation at what lay ahead and followed the Black Knight character to an array of medieval treasures. The children were shown a variety of artefacts, including some of the weapons and armour the Normans would have worn. Much to their surprise, the children were able to try on some of the clothing and helmets, as well as try their hand with a sword, an axe and a shield or two.
Black Knight delivered a wealth of historical knowledge to the children in a way that thoroughly engaged them. This learning has been followed up in the classroom in order to consolidate the wonderful introduction they had from Black Knight!
We are hoping that Black Knight will join us again at the castle or perhaps at school to deliver a presentation on another historical period we are studying!
Emma Hunt
North Wooton Primary School
Norfolk.
COSTUMED INTERPRETATION, WOBURN ABBEY
May 28th 2013
“We were delighted to work with Black Knight over the May Bank Holiday weekend. The W.W.I Tommie and W.W.II Wren helped bring the story of these brave people and their time in the Abbey to life.
Visitors all commented as to how good they were and we will certainly look to work with them again.”
Jonathan Irby
General Manager
Woburn Abbey
GEORGIAN GARDEN PARTY, GRESSENHALL MUSEUM, NORFOLK./p>
May 28th 2013
Dear Ian,
Thank you to you and your colleagues for your support of Monday’s History Alive event at Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse. The weather really couldn’t have been better and nor could the visitor response with just under 1,000 people on site. It really was a super day all round.
This was a new venture for us – we’ve had Georgian and 18th century elements within events before but haven’t gone for something quite so focused on this period and with so many – and such good quality – enactors. It was interesting to see the number of staff who came in on their day off, just to see what it was all about!
If you’ve yet to see it, there was a lovely write up with photographs of your team in yesterday’s Eastern Daily Press, and this and the photo gallery is also available to view online – http://www.edp24.co.uk/news/photo_gallery_georgians_come_to_life_at_gressenhall_farm_and_workhouse_1_2211467
I hope that you all had an enjoyable day at Gressenhall.
With many thanks once again – we really couldn’t have done it without you!
Hannah Jackson
Sustainability Project Officer
SCHOOL WORKSHOPS, WHITTLESEY
March 27th 2013
Black Knight came to our school to lead Victorian, Tudor and Egyptian days with pupils in Year 3, Year 4 and Year 6. All three days were incredibly successful and helped to build upon children’s prior knowledge of these historical periods.
By dressing up in period costume, Black Knight immediately grabbed the pupils’ attention as they transported them back in time.
Actual artefacts and practical activities engaged the pupils throughout the day, whilst allowing them to become immersed in the history that they were surrounded by. It was amazing to see how quickly the children learnt about what life was like during these times and how enthused they were to explore further.
All the sessions were led by enthusiastic adults who not only had a clear passion for the history they were imparting to the pupils, but also a fantastic knowledge base. The knowledge that Black Knight imparted to the pupils in the space of one day was incredible!
We look forward to welcoming Black Knight into our school in the near future.
Teachers at Park Lane Primary School.
CORPORATE MURDER MYSTERY, NORWICH
March 22nd 2013
Morning Ian
Just some feedback from Friday night.
Everyone was most impressed with the production, how everyone remained in character and the general overall experience and entertainment factor. Many thanks to you all.
I would like to think we could consider another in the distant future and will certainly be in touch if that occasion arises.
Many thanks again for making our MIE event so successful, memorable and enjoyable.
Kind regards
Aileen
PIRATE SCHOOL WORKSHOPS, GREAT YARMOUTH
March 2nd 2013
Dear Ian
This is just an email to say a big thank you, as my son came to see you at the Time and Tide museum on Thurs and he’s done nothing but talk about his experience, and also telling me all about the things Pirates do.
He hasn’t learnt so much as in the short time he was there with you, and it’s made him decide to be a real pirate when he grows up. My son flags Asperges syndrome and this is the first time since being at school he has come home telling me all about the things that happened that day.
You have certainly helped give my little boy an interest to focus on; I feel like his experience with you is going to stay with him for a long time as he is convinced he saw a real pirate and that they are so much fun.
Thank you again
One really happy parent
L Nichols
p.s please would it be possible to have a signed photograph of you for my sons room.
Thank you xx
KING ARTHUR BIRTHDAY PARTY, PETERBOROUGH
February 10th 2013
Many many thanks for the fantastic entertainment at Joseph’s party on Sunday. He was absolutely thrilled and hasn’t stopped grinning.
Joe’s friends loved it too and we’ve had comments of ‘epic’ and ‘awesome’.
We look forward to seeing you in action at some of the summer events.
Kind regards
Sam
SCHOOL WORKSHOP, STOURBRIDGE
November 27th 2012
Hi Ian,
The day was great and the children really enjoyed it and got a lot out of it.
Jed was well organised and friendly and the children really liked him. He covered all of the topic we would have expected.
Thanks Ruth
CHARITY EVENT
October 26th 2012
Hello Ian
Fire eater on Friday evening was amazing!!! Thank you for all your help I will definitely use your company for future events.
Many Thanks
Amy Greenwood
Deputy Fundraising Co-ordinator Norwich and North Norfolk
East Anglian Air Ambulance
GREAT YARMOUTH MUSEUMS
September 24th 2012
Black Knight have been a pleasure to deal with – this is our first season working together and we have had pirates, Henry VIII and Katherine Howard, Fire-Eaters and Nelson’s Captain Hardy!
Each event has been delivered professionally and efficiently whilst engaging with different groups and types of occasion. I look forward to working together again soon.
Best wishes
Paul Wishart
Operations Manager
Norfolk Museums & Archaeology Service – Eastern Area
PENSTHORPE MEDIÆVAL SPECTACULAR
August 31st 2012
“Hello Ian
I just wanted to let you know that myself, my husband and my 6 year old daughter had a fabulous time at Pensthorpe on Bank Holiday Monday. It truly was a spectacular event, and the jousting was just fantastic!
Thank you.
Theresa Palfrey.
Senior Searchroom/Research Assistant,
Norfolk Record Office.
VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS AT HOLKHAM HALL
December 8th 2011
” I wanted to write a note to say a very big thank you to you both, and to all of your team who were unfailingly charming and professional.
What a great first Christmas opening for all of us. Thank You.”
Viscountess Coke, Holkham Hall.
TUDOR SCHOOL DAY
November 18th 2011
I am so sorry this email has taken me so long to write!
I wanted to say thank you so much for the wonderful day you provided for the Year 5 children at our School. We all had a fantastic time and feel that the Tudor period was brought to life at school. The children were buzzing for days afterwards and are so enthused about our history topic this term. As a staff, we couldn’t have asked for more. Your knowledge was second to none and the clothing and artefacts made history real for our children. We would love to book again for next year. Thank you so much again. I have mailed some letters from the children to show their appreciation for everything they have learned.
Please take care, we look forward to seeing you again soon,
Jessica Rexe
ISLE OF MAN EVENTS
October 18th 2011
In 2011 we launched two new events ‘A Victorian Extravaganza!’ and ‘Island at War’. Black Knight were heavily involved for both of these events and they truly would not have been the same without their involvement. The staff were extremely well turned out and offered many suggestions that helped bring both events to life and make them a great success.
As a result, we are not only repeating the two events next year, but also adding a 1960’s event to our growing event calendar. Black Knight have already been booked for all three events.
MEDIEVAL MERRIMENT AT ROCHESTER CASTLE
Sept 6th 2011
Thanks for a great weekend, very well organised and looking forward to next year. Big thumbs up on the commentary also, always helps when an organiser knows his history, especially maille. Hope you had a good trip back.
Mark Hale
Owner
Cap-a-Pie Maille Armour
ELIZABETHAN REVELS at PRIOR PURSGLOVE COLLEGE
May 7th 2011
Prior Pursglove College was looking for performers to take part in our 450th celebrations. After completing internet research, the name of Black Knight kept coming up as the best in their field. This view point was backed by English Heritage who thoroughly recommended them to us.
From the initial contact to staging our event, Black Knight have been wonderful partners to work with. They were keen to find out exactly what we wanted and put together a programme which exceeded all of our expectations. They have kept us in the loop about performers taking part, have been very responsive to requests for information and given us exceptional value for money.
The event put on by Black Knight will never be forgotten by the many thousands of people from Guisborough who attended. The quality of costumes, props and general environment created was incredibly authentic. The quality of performances and demonstrations were exceptional – highly educational and thoroughly entertaining. The quirky characters all had the ability to engage children and adults alike throughout the whole day with a wonderful array of props, activities and performances.
This is a group that definitely goes the extra half mile. I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Black Knight to anyone considering putting on an event. Book them now – you won’t regret it.
Robert Grierson
Vice Principal and Organiser 450th Celebrations
Prior Pursglove College
Church Walk
Guisborough
SCHOOL ENDORSEMENT – WYMONDHAM HIGH SCHOOL
May 3-5th 2011
Dear Ian
GOLDEN AGE EVENT AT WYMONDHAM ABBEY
I would like to thank you for your help with the Golden Age Event held by the school last week.
Many thanks for organising such a fabulously colourful and thought-provoking team of practicioners.
The whole experience was very enjoyable and educational.
SCHOOL ENDORSEMENT – TOWN CLOSE PREP SCHOOL
October 11th 2010
There are 4 simple reasons why Ian Pycroft/Black Knight Historical represents an outstanding ‘ must do’ experience for any group of historians – young or old.
1. Superb subject knowledge across the range of his characters who continue to evolve; rather like history itself
2. Superbly authentic costumes and accessories/accoutrements
3. Superb interaction with pupils, history teachers and professional historians alike
4. Superb value for money
Overall, Ian’s demonstrable passion and enthusiasm for all things historical has, over the past 8 years, added enormously to the depth of our history syllabus and our children’s enjoyment of it . It may be a cliche, but it is nevertheless true, that Ian brings ‘the past alive’.
VICTORIAN EXPLORERS at IPSWICH MUSEUM
March 19th 2011
Ipswich Museum was brought to life as a Victorian curiosity shop with Ian and his team on the galleries as costumed characters. They were friendly, approachable and engaged the public. They gave visitors the opportunity to handling and ask questions about the objects and stories they presented. It will be great to have them back again to interpret some of our other collections.
PETERBOROUGH MUSEUM & LIVING HISTORY FAYRE
November 24th 2010
Black Knight Historical provides a friendly, efficient, versatile and highly professional service, whether providing a simgle costumed interpreter or a significant proportion of a heritage festival.
Ian is a pleasure to deal with and provides simple and cost effective solutions to our requirements.
CASTLE RISING, NORFOLK.
August 14/15 2010
BLACK KNIGHT HISTORICAL –MEDIEVAL TIME TRAVEL 1066 – 1485
This re-enactment led by Ian Pycroft (Black Knight) was one of the best I’ve ever booked for a summer show.
BKH filled the castle yard with an authentic camp, stalls displays, demonstrations and characters who visitors chose as their ‘champions’ during the final combat display.
A real family event and enjoyed by all.
WORLD WAR 2 INTERPRETATION – NEWARK CASTLE
31 July 2010
Black Knight supplied a range of activities and re enactors in World War II period costume and interacted with the large crowd that were drawn to them all day. Visitors were very interested in talking to the group and children in particular were enthralled by the weapons. It was good that they actually got to touch some of the exhibits which helps to bring it all to life.
From an organisers point of view, on the day, they were very amenable and easy to talk to and sensitive to the heritage of Newark Castle as a site. The event would have been much the poorer without them.” – Emily Gillott, Nottinghamshire County Council’s Community Archaeology Team.
Patrick Fisher of Winthorpe, said: “It has been a wonderful summer with this event. It is fantastic that local people can learn all about the history of Newark and this is great for children.”
Nicholas Fisher, Winthorpe, said: “I liked talking to the army soldier. I liked looking at all the weapons and way he explained them to us.”
Carl Freckleton, Newark, said: “It is good to see history through the different ages, like the medieval things through to Second World War. “It is bringing people from outside Newark into the town as well. The town has been really busy and that is good to see.”
Hopefully we will be able to run this event again next year; HLF seemed very keen on it! All the best Emily
MEDIEVAL SUMMER FUN – LINCOLN CASTLE
7-8 August 2010
Just wanted to say a huge thank you to everyone who worked at Medieval Summer Fun this weekend. It was a huge success for us with 1,483 visitors on Saturday and 1,398 on Sunday which is fantastic, by far the best event we have had this year.
We have had some great comments on the visitor survey forms:
“This event has been thoroughly worth every penny. The activities were varied and interesting. Even I got to make a Jester’s mask!”
“Absolutely fantastic, staff were amazing loved the live interaction with the prison actors. My girls (6 & 4) loved the visit too thank you we had a great day”
“This has been a super event. So much for the kids to do at no extra charge”
“Thank you for a lovely day, we’ve had so much fun”
“We have never been to Lincoln Castle before and came for the summer fun event on Saturday. We just wanted to say thank you for a really wonderful day. Not only do the activities appeal to a wide range of tastes for the children but they are accessible for all abilities and needs. We will most definitely be coming again!”
ABEL SMITH SUMMER FAIR
3 July 2010
Hi Ian,
The Summer fair went really well on Saturday, it was a great success and enjoyed by all. Simon and his crew were fantastic, we couldn’t believe how much stuff they brought with them. They worked really hard and made it all look very authentic. The archery was a great success and enjoyed both by the children and adults.
Thank you once again, I will certainly be recommending you.
BEESTON HALL SCHOOL DAY
29 June 2010
Ian Pycroft and the other Black Knight ‘cast members’ put on a wonderful Medieval Day for the children and staff here at Beeston Hall Prep School near Sheringham in North Norfolk in June 2010. We cancelled all lessons that day and instead divided the school population into 6 groups.
Each group spent 3/4s of an hour at each Medieval ‘station’ around the school. In discussions with Ian we chose the following stations for our day – falconry, arms and armour, diet, medicine, religion and art.
Ian also arranged a Medieval dancing session for our boarders. The staff from Black Knight were knowledgable and worked really hard for the whole day. They dressed up in authentic costumes. They kept the children entertained and engaged.
The next day we had ‘thank yous’ from both parents and children. The pupils learnt so much and still talk about the things that they learnt that day, even though it is several months later.
POWIS CASTLE WW2 DAY
12-13 June 2010
Hi Ian,
I just wanted to say a huge thank you for supporting our WW2 event at Powis on June 12th & 13th. The event was a great success and we had some excellent feedback from visitors.
POWIS CASTLE WW2 DAY
12-13 June 2010
Dear Ian,
First of all, I would like to say how much we all enjoyed our afternoon at Powys Castle last Saturday! What impressed me was how knowledgeable all your team are and how well they responded to the children, taking time to encourage their curiosity and answer all their questions.
Thank you once again,
Lisa Manna-Smith,
Visitor
CORPORATE MURDER MYSTERY
12 March 2010
Hi Ian,
Thankyou so much for all your effort and hardwork for our event – I have heard nothing but praise for you since Friday!
It was lovely to meet you all, and yes it WAS thoroughly confusing!!
My sincerest thanks to you all once again.
ROMAN DAY AT CORPUSTY PRIMARY SCHOOL
1 December 2009
Dear Ian
Thank you for such a fun and interesting morning. We loved today and we wish you could come again. It was good to be able to see and touch the Roman things you brought for us, they were seriously fascinating. Your sword was very heavy and sharp and your shield was heavy too. We liked your shiny helmet and your armour. Your equipment was amazing.
You organised us Romans very well. We liked saying that those horrible Celts smelt. It was hard standing in a straight line and marching together. We liked marching and doing it with a real Roman.
We enjoyed learning about the Roman numerals and trying to work out the dates. We learnt a lot of new Roman words.
We have never met a real Roman before so it was good to meet you. Please will you come again.
From Jed, Ben, Fenella, Billie, Archie, Charlie, Holly, Casey
PENSTHORPE MEDIAEVAL SPECTACULAR 2009
29-31 August 2009
Dear Ian,
Just to say Pensthorpe was great again this year, excellent as always, very well organised. Jim the potter is always good to watch at work and it’s good to have the chance to buy his pots and nice, as an arcaheologist, to see the complete pieces as we are generally used to small fragments!
The falconer was brilliant and Star the Saker Falcon is the best bird of prey I have ever seen in such a show (and I have seen a lot of falconry displays), it’s amazing how they work together.
Best wishes,
Julie
DENNY ABBEY
30-31 August 2009
Dear Ian
I would just like to thank you and to ask you to pass on our thanks to the group who were fantastic over the bank holiday. The visitors (755 over the 2 days) really enjoyed the event with lots of great feedback, especially about the nuns with suggestions to have them as a regular feature in the Abbey! The group were very entertaining, interactive and professional and a lot better than a lot of groups we’ve had in the past.
I’d really like to have your group again for next year if this was acceptable (I think they enjoyed it and liked the site!) so I’ll ask Lisa and see what we can do.
THE NUNS OF LACOCK ABBEY
15-16 August 2009
I just wanted to once again pass on our thanks for a wonderful event last weekend.
Our visitors thoroughly enjoyed the activities, displays and presentations throughout the day and the general consensus was that ‘The Nuns of Lacock Abbey’ successfully brought to life both the building and the story of the nuns who once lived here.
The group of performers and actors that were brought together for this event were all a joy to have in Lacock and made the event the little bit more special for those of us behind the scenes as they could not have been friendlier or more approachable.
Thank You once again for all the time, energy and enthusiasm that went in to making ‘The nuns of Lacock Abbey’ not only a success but a bespoke, unique event that really captured the spirit of the place.
RENDEZVOUS – CAVELL MANAGEMENT SERVICES
From our point of view, the evening was a complete and utter success. The sponsors were delighted with the theme, the activities, the characters involved who not only looked superb but were also brilliant at interacting with a bunch of insurance professionals. The birds were a massive hit as well. We hope you got as much pleasure as us from the evening. We will begin planning for next year’s event around December/January time so we will be in touch to see if you can help us again – I have no doubt you can!
Thank you for everything and very kindest regards
HERTFORD CASTLE – KING ARTHUR MEDIEVAL EVENT
9-10 May 2009
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC, WELL DONE AND THANK YOU!
NORWICH CATHEDRAL – HISTORIC CHRISTMAS FAYRE
12-14 December 2008
Grateful thanks are offered to all who made the second Historic Christmas Fayre at Norwich Cathedral such a success; including stallholders, entertainers and all those who volunteered.
The weekend was both successful and enjoyable and a special word of thanks must go out to Ian Pycroft of Black Knight Historical for managing this event for us. The relationship between Ian and the Cathedral is extremely good and keeps building every year.
It is wonderful to attract so many locals through the doors of their Cathedral to enjoy themselves, spend some money but also to connect with the building and see the rich heritage upon their doorstep which often goes unnoticed.
Cathedrals are repositories of the living history and spiritual welfare of this country and your support is both appreciated and reciprocated. With best wishes for the future and the hope that you will enjoy a blessed and holy celebration of the birth of Our Lord.
ROCHESTER CASTLE – MEDIEVAL MERRIMENT
6-7 September 2008
Medieval Merriment at Rochester Castle Gardens was an enjoyable weekend for both visitors & residents alike.
All re-enactors were very knowledgeable and professional which really brought the castle to life and encouraged visitors to learn more about Rochester and for residents to take a step back in time.
Everyone who came along to the castle enjoyed themselves with around 4000 visitors attending.
Many thanks
PENSTHORPE MEDIAEVAL SPECTACULAR
23-25 August 2008
FEUDAL ARCHERS AND I. G. WOLF e.V. AT PENSTHORPE
Members of Feudal Archers were pleased to be at Pensthorpe again this year as it is such an atmospheric place, well away from motorways, light pollution and other modern distractions.
We were again joined by some of our good friends and colleagues from the German group I. G. Wolf, who recreate the same historical period. The occasion was even more significant as Feudal Archers marked their 10th anniversary as a group, holding an informal and very convivial celebration around the campfire after hours on the Saturday.
Occasional showers and ever-present hoards of sugar-hungry wasps failed to dampen our spirits, while the addition of music and song to our repertoire was an uplifting and joyous experience. Many visitors seemed especially impressed by the music.
Observing the monastic hours, demonstrating archery, crafts, cooking and the equipment of a 12th century knight gave us all an opportunity to interact with visitors and (hopefully) entertain and educate which we see as vital components of Living History.
Thanks, Ian, for the opportunity, the venue and the company.
WHAPLODE EVENT
4-6 July 2008
Ian,
It was a pleasure to work with you again, and the members of Tournee were very complimentary throughout the event, commenting particularly on how nice it is to work for someone who is relaxed, in control, and also concerned to make sure that the re-enactors are having a good time!
The event had a lovely atmosphere, and those of our ranks who missed it for whatever reason are now regretting it as they see the photos and hear the feedback from those who attended.
WEDDING OF PAUL TAYLOR AND JACKIE KEMP, DRAGON HALL, NORWICH
28 June 2008
Hi Ian
Had a great honeymoon thanks.
Thank you so much for the effect you and your fellow members put into our wedding.
You really made the day. We couldn’t have wished for anything more, everyone had such a good time and you got everyone involved, everyone said how hard you worked and how much they enjoyed it.
The setting and the weather was wonderful – I hope you enjoyed the day with us, I’ve got some really great photos from Dave (House of De Clifford), and all the guests; if you would like any more I would be glad to pass them on.
I really can’t put into words how pleased I was with how things went, it must have been my lucky day when I bumped into the Black Knight troupe in Norwich on that cold December afternoon and the spark was lit; everyone who was there will remember that day for sometime to come!
I wish you all the very best for the future.
Very kind regards
Jackie
CITY BOATS TOUR OF MEDIAEVAL NORWICH
7 June 2008
Hi Ian
We thought the Medieval Cruise went well and all at City Boats and our customers were thrilled with its success. Your commentary certainly kept our customers enthralled.
Kind regards
DOVER CASTLE EVENT
24-26 May 2008
Hi Ian
I just wanted to say a huge thank you to you and all your group. The Keep looked great and I know visitors and staff really enjoyed it. I know you were really busy and worked your socks off all three days. It was a pleasure having you at Dover.
WRETTON HISTORICAL ORGANISATION
17 May 2008
Well, what can I say?
How can one condense in a few words one of the best days I can remember for ages?
From the humble idea in my head to the fully fledged occasion. Mr Pycroft saying yes, yes and yes when asking if this and that were possible.
The generosity of the sponsors, the eagerness of the church cleaning party. Maureen putting a lot of herself into producing a beautiful painting of the church. To the four Johns for erecting tents, being really funny and not realising it.
The Saturday evening shenanigans, the mead and Mr Jennings tall tales by candle light combined with the aroma of wood smoke.
Finally to the tummy churning day itself. The escaping down to the river first thing, to the early dance group taking over my house. Loved the poignant speech from Neil and his portrayal of the WWI padre. Like all good things seemed to go so quick.
A brief snapshot of the day? Has to be all those smiles. The smiles from the public reflecting in the smiles of the re-enactors.
BIG THANK YOU TO YOU ALL, IT WAS MAGIC.
KENILWORTH CASTLE EVENT
4-5 May 2008
Hi Ian
Just wanted to say thank you for all your hard work for the event at Kenilworth Castle. I could not fault your organisation of the event and it all flowed really well over the weekend without a single hiccup. It really brought the castle to life and we’ve had nothing but praise from the visitors. I look forward to working with you on future projects.
BOSTON GUILDHALL OPENING EVENT
26 March 2008
Dear Ian,
Thank you so very much for attending the opening of Boston Guildhall Museum over Easter weekend, and at such short notice.
It was great to have you wandering round in all your finery, helping to bring the building alive; it had been empty for so long, it really was magnificent.
As you have seen and heard yourself we plan to have many more events which we do hope you will be a part of.
You really were an asset to have for the opening, especially saving the day and officially opening the museum, slashing the ribbon in full armour – quite spectacular!
Your interpretation skills are outstanding and the quality of the costume and characterisations are all super! We cannot thank you enough for your help and enthusiasm.
Many Thanks from us all here at Boston Borough Council who were involved with the opening.
We hope to see you again in the Guildhall soon.
PASTON CHURCH, NORFOLK
22 March 2008
Dear Ian,
I would just like to say a big thank you on behalf of the Paston Heritage Society to all your re-enactors who came and performed in such difficult conditions.
The event was a big success for us and can be viewed on www.northnorfolk.tv this week.
If we are fortunate enough to gain further grants, we will be keen to ask for your input again.
I enclose some photos taken by Crabline – the North Norfolk free paper.
ELY CATHEDRAL BANQUET
7 February 2008
Dear Ian
Thank you so much for joining us for our Medieval Evening at the Cathedral.
We have had a lot of very complimentary feedback from those attending.
You looked just the part in your splendid outfit and by chatting to people there you were able to pass on some of your great knowledge of the period, which was much appreciated.
I know this was your first visit to Ely and I hope it will not be your only one! The Cathedral makes a perfect setting for an evening such as this. We all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and were very excited to be a part of it – the most ambitious fundraising event the Cathedral Education Department has ever organised!
It was good to meet you, Ian. Many thanks again for giving up your time to be with us.
PENSTHORPE MEDIAEVAL SPECTACULAR
25-27 August 2007
Dear Ian
I wanted to write you a quick letter to thank you for all your hard work that you put into this years event.
As ever your organisation and efficiency helped make the event a success with positive feedback from both our visitors and our staff.
We look forward to meeting with you and talking through next years event and to continue building on its reputation as the regions largest and finest Medieval re-enactment.
P.S. The event is really gaining big stature in the region. Many thanks and congratulations!
FESTIVAL OF HISTORY
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