Testimonials & Reviews

TESTIMONIAL & REVIEWS

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.

BLACK DEATH ACTIVITY DAY – St Alban’s Girls School.

Rachel

CARDINAL WOLSEY– COSTUMED INTERPRETATION, Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich

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

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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