All eyes to Battle as town marks special 1066 anniversary

All eyes will be on Battle today (Friday) as the town prepares for a programme of events to commemorate the 950th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings.
By The Newsroom
Published 14th Oct 2016, 09:51 BST
Updated 25th Oct 2016, 19:32 BST

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Visitors from across Sussex, the UK and Europe are expected to come to town to enjoy a day packed full of activities to mark this historic milestone.

The day has been organised by Concorde 1066.

The mayor of Battle, David Furness, will receive and welcome invited guests from eight nations, including France and Canada, for a special lunch before everyone gathers outside for one of the highlights of the day.

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At 1pm, hundreds of schoolchildren will gather at Battle Abbey before parading up the High Street, led by King Harold and Duke William.

Participating schools include Battle Abbey, Battle and Langton, Catsfield, Claremont, Claverham, Crowhurst, Netherfield, Ninfield, Robertsbridge Sedlescombe and Vinehall.

At 3.30pm a multi-denominational church commemorative service will take place in St Mary The Virgin Church, to which all are welcome.

Bishop Martin of Chichester will be in attendance and re-enactors will take part.

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From 3pm, there will be tea and entertainment for children in Battle Memorial Halls.

At 5.30pm a military band will process along the High Street, followed by ceremonial lowering of the flags at sunset.

An invitation-only reception will follow for local people at Battle Abbey School.

Battle High Street will be temporarily closed between 2pm and 3.30pm and then again at 5.15pm until 6.30pm.

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Simon Alexander, chairman of Concorde 1066, said: “There are six different events.

“There is a service at St Mary’s Church which will be busy.

“We are expecting a lot of people.”

Find out more at www.concorde1066.co.uk.

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Related topics:BattleEuropeSussexCanada