TILLIER’S WEEKEND, PICTON CASTLE, 22/23 JULY 2006

John

On arrival at the camp site at Picton Castle we were both unsure about what to expect, we were directed to the Tillier’s Regiment where we were greeted very warmly.

We got introduced to most of the regiment and were soon indulging in some good beer & lager.

On the Saturday we woke up having hardly slept and slowly got down to bacon sandwiches that were concocted between Richard, Jane and anyone else who had something to share.

Our first taste of Tillier’s started soon after when slowly but surely we started getting “glammed up!!” in our Costumes, borrowing most of our kit from Barry & Di, Omar & Richard & Jane. Sue and I were soon getting our training with Sue learning to be a civilian carrying water trying to look the part. I was getting to grips with a musket thanks to Omar’s patience! Having just about grasped the basics we all went into marching practice with the Drummers led by the C .O. Richard Pearce. Sue & I were both feeling good but apprehensive about our roles.

Before lunch and the real thing in the afternoon I was given the opportunity to fire a live musket under the close eye of Tim & Omar with Barry, Andy, Nigel & others – it really put all the learning together as one!

It was time! Sue & I were going to be part of the Tillier’s regiment for real, for the first time on a Battle field in front of a public audience & we were both nervous, myself more so. The atmosphere was surreal unlike anything that I had ever done before I felt the pressure of high expectancy but with humour. We marched down to the castle backed up by the drummers where we were instructed by Rich what to do, everyone eagerly waiting whilst being nervous. The time came and we went in. It was very strange for me as I was near the front seeing the public reaction watching us. The atmosphere was incredible until an unfortunate error when I died before I was shot from the opposition, after hearing Rich telling me to die on the next round of firing (I wasn’t able to claim the Booby prize pint)!!!

Sue

I enjoyed the whole weekend very much. The people were great, the camping fun and walking into battle for the first time was quite an experience. I remember thinking ‘What on earth am I doing here?’ Di and Judith were brilliant though and I followed their lead. Di on one occasion shielded my head as I was collecting a match that was precariously close to the fighting which I was very grateful for.

One thing that struck me was how friendly everyone was and how they looked after each other. There were several of us which had forgotten important items, like the key to their top box – I hope you don’t mind me mentioning that Bev and I for one forgot my underwear, first time ever – great time to start when you’re camping. Bev, Adele and I managed with a few borrowed items from other people, which were very much appreciated.

Cliff’s fry up in the morning was a sight to behold not to mention the fab smell - you’ve inspired John I hope.

I have to say that dressing up in the period clothes was fun. It’s like you become a different person and that makes a pleasant change because life can become a little predictable at times. Going into the local town for our evening meal all dressed up was interesting – the public didn’t seem that phased by it and I didn’t feel too silly which was good.

Later when we got back from the pub everyone helped celebrate my birthday in style with a cake and candles and sang happy birthday to me – that was great!!

I think on reflection it was the battle that did it for me. It was so different from anything that I’ve ever done before and marching onto the field behind those drums sent a tingle down my spine. Those battles in the mid 1600’s must have been terrifying for all involved and you certainly pick up on a small piece of that when you re-enact. It was a privilege for us to be at Picton castle to do that.