Swords drawn for medieval festival
Thousands of visitors will flock to Scone Palace
Thousands have descended on Scone Palace for the highly-anticipated International Medieval Combat Federation (IMCF) world championships.
The world championships, which got under way at the historic crowning place of Scottish kings yesterday, will see more than 500 real-life medieval knights from in excess of 32 countries worldwide arriving in the Fair City to compete.
The four days of competition lasts until Sunday, May 13, and features fully-armoured teams participating in individual and team battles and archery.
There will even be a home team flying the flag for Scotland, including two local competitors – Joshua Emmerson from Bankfoot and Joe Partridge from Tummel Bridge.
Stephen Brannigan, head of house opening at Scone Palace, said: “We are so thrilled to host such a unique tournament with such a strong hand in the past.
“It couldn’t be more appropriate for our historic palace, the crowning place of Scottish kings, to host an international medieval combat tournament.
“It will literally be like experiencing another era completely.
“We are looking forward to sharing the experience with visitors and competitors, both locally and from all over the world.”
There will be fun for all the family as visitors travel back in time with regal storytellers and have a “behind the scenes” look at the tournament.
Spectators will also be able to meet the fierce
Joe Partridge from Tummel Bridge at yesterday’s opening ceremony competitors in the on-site medieval encampment, and there will be live music each day from Glasgowbased Clann An Drumma from noon until 4pm.
Horse lovers will also be able to see the spectacular equine parade Les Amid D’Onno. The parade includes beautiful animals throughout the day on Sunday.
And, for those who love birds of prey, there will be falconry displays as well.
Other entertainment will include jugglers, children’s jousting, and local food and drink stalls in the palace gardens.
Entry to the IMCF world championships cost £16.50 per day, with children priced at £13.20.
Tickets can be bought online from www. ticketmaster.co.uk/ artist/5253462
Tickets can also be bought for £17.50 on the gate and each car will cost £10 per day to park.
It will be like experiencing another era