A horde of Anglo-Saxon warriors on horseback invaded Stafford town centre as a re-enactment group took over Victoria Square.

The history enthusiasts set up camp outside the Shire Hall Gallery where the Staffordshire Hoard was on show until Sunday.

]The colourful spectacular extended the Anglo Saxon theme – the Staffordshire Hoard, which moves to Lichfield this week, is the largest collection of Anglo-Saxon gold and silver metalwork ever found – to the streets outside.

Shoppers enjoyed music of the period and listened to stories of the Dark Ages, including the Beowulf tale.

Youngsters were able to try on armour, witness a mock Anglo-Saxon burial and try their hand at calligraphy and making tools from wood and bone. They also tucked into samples of Anglo Saxon cuisine.

The Staffordshire Hoard opens at Lichfield Cathedral on Saturday where it will remain until August 21.

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