THOUSANDS of visitors have passed through the gates of Caldicot Castle to watch battle re-enactments over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Fortress Wales returned to the castle and county park today to enjoy live action re-enactments and living history events which continue tomorrow.

Now in its fourth year, Fortress Wales is the largest event of its kind, which brings together 1,000 actors from almost 70 various historical re-enactment groups from all over the UK and Europe.

Re-enactments throughout the two day-event include Medieval and American Civil War to the Second World War and the Vietnam Conflict.

They take place across five arenas within the country park.

There are around 40 encampments set up throughout the 60 acres of the country park which visitors are encouraged to visit to see various artefacts and learn about that particular period of history.

The event also features a traders’ area and catering facilities.

The weekend is of particular significance to the site as it marks the 50th anniversary of the castle opening to the public. The first visitors were welcomed to the historic site on the May Bank Holiday weekend in 1965.

Mike Booth, Caldicot Castle and Country Park manager, said: “This is a multi-period event featuring everything from the Vikings to the Vietnam Conflict and almost to the modern day.

“The event grows year by year and is one of the largest of its kind in Wales, if not the UK.

“It puts Caldicot firmly on the map and brings the town alive.”

Caldicot Castle is again supporting the Royal British Legion this year.

The Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight in a Dakota Second World War plane was due to take place today and fly over the castle and country park.

The event continues tomorrow. Tickets are £10 for adults while admission for children and concessions is £5. Children under five go free.