A MAN involved in a medieval reenactment is in a serious condition after suffering a horrendous sword injury.
The 37-year-old man was wearing body armour when his opponent’s sword entered his visor just before 3pm.
A 37-year-old man has been left in a serious condition after a sword injury[/caption]
He has been left in a serious condition after suffering a head injury.
Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward after the incident on Sunday at Bodiam Castle, East Sussex.
A large crowd including children were watching the reenactments at the 14th century castle.
They were left shocked and distressed by the “freak accident”.
One witness said: “It had been a really thrilling fight reenactment and then suddenly it went catastrophically wrong.
“It was a freak accident really. They must have rehearsed it a hundred times. It was clearly just dreadful luck.
“It was clear the man was very seriously injured and people were very shocked. Some kids were in tears. It was quite upsetting for everyone who was there.”
Police are specifically looking for photographs or video footage of the incident.
Detective Inspector Barry Chandler from Sussex Police said: “A man was unfortunately injured during the combat re-enactment.
“We are treating the incident as an accident and we are offering support to his family. His opponent, a 36-year-old man also from Horsham, and the organisers are helping us with our enquiries.
“We know the re-enactment had drawn a large crowd and understand that anyone who witnessed the scene could have found this distressing.
“We are appealing to anyone who has photographs or videos of the interaction that led to the injury to contact us so we can gain a clear understanding of what happened.”
The man was rushed to Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton after being treated by paramedics.
The castle, which is run by the National Trust, often hosts groups of volunteers with a passion for history and training.
Dressed in full armour, they show what medieval combat may have looked like, through showing weapons and explaining techniques.
Visitors are then invited to ask the participants questions to build up their knowledge of medieval life and combat.
Police are appealing for witnesses with information about the incident[/caption]
