Medieval Market Cheserfield 26.7.11

Damsels and Knights flocked to Chesterfield's town centre on Tuesday to take part in this year's Medieval Market.
Thousands of visitors travelled back in time for Chesterfield's annual fun-packed Medieval merriment . Attractions included Skirmishes and troops battling it out in the church yard as part of their demonstrations, and Heironymous Slop, the Court Jester entertained the crowds with his juggling skills and unicycle finale.
A fun fair illuminated new square with a traditional carousel, and medieval stall holders occupied the main market place with a full of a range of stalls, including charity stalls selling their wares and holding raffles, and traders selling bric-a-brac, and food, including a hog roast.
Medieval musicians meandered through the market playing their period instruments, a sword swallower had his audience in awe, while people crowded around the ducking stool -at a safe distance - to watch as the characters plunged into the water. A new feature to this year's event were the Medieval Beggars, bothering shoppers for a spare turnip.
Chesterfield Museum played host to a Medieval Money Maker and the 'Crooked Spire' held trips to the church tower.
Cllr John Burrows, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council said: "There's been a great atmosphere in the town today at the Medieval Market and the weather has been kind, which is always a bonus!  Everyone seems to have enjoyed the different attractions on offer and it's been great to see so many enter the spirit of the occasion."