Knights and damsels at Stafford Castle

Ready for the chop! Visitors to Stafford Castle were given the chance to dress up as knights, damsels and peasants.

The special event to celebrate Stafford Castle's rich history was held as part of the national heritage open days programme.

Guides helped visitors to dress up in arms and armour and experience what it was really like to walk around in medieval costume with some quick to get into character.

Promoted by the Civic Trust, it saw a host of important buildings and sites across the UK opened up to the public free of charge.