HUNDREDS took part in unique events as part of the Athelstan 1100 celebrations over the weekend in Malmesbury.

An Anglo Saxon themed food, drink and craft fair was held as well as a community picnic. 

Meanwhile, there were also four live performances of the production ‘Athelstan – A United Kingdom’ held at Malmesbury Abbey. 

So far, the volunteers have arranged 24 different events over 27 days in celebration of the 1100th anniversary of the accession of King Athelstan – the first King of England.

His relationship with Malmesbury is written deep in the DNA of the town and he chose to be buried at Malmesbury Abbey.

Cllr Campbell Ritchie, who heads up the team of volunteers, said: “It was a wonderful weekend, with so much activity and fun for the hundreds of people who came along, both residents and visitors from further afield and it’s not over yet, there’s more to come.”

(Image: Richard Harris)

(Image: Richard Harris)

(Image: Richard Harris)

(Image: Richard Harris)

New MP Dr Roz Savage attending the Anglo Saxon fair (Image: Richard Harris)
 
More Athelstan-themed events are planned this coming weekend including:

  • Friday, July 19 at 7.30pm - a talk by Paul Hill ‘What Was Warfare Like In Athelstan’s Age’ at Malmesbury Town Hall. An earlier talk by historian Tony McAleavy is now sold out.  
  • Saturday, July 20 and Sunday, July 21 between 10am and 4.30pm – a large-scale re-enactment event by the organisation Regio Anglorum at St Aldhelm’s Mead. 
  • Saturday July 20 - an Anglo Saxon themed feast at Malmesbury Town Hall at 7.30pm, just a few tickets left, more than 100 already sold. 

 
For more information and to book tickets visit - www.athelstan1100.co.uk

All photos by Richard Harris and Campbell Ritchie.