THAXTED was invaded by six members of the Civil War Society to reconnoitre the town ahead of their major invasion on September 18 and 19.

THAXTED was invaded by six members of the Civil War Society to reconnoitre the town ahead of their major invasion on September 18 and 19.

After meeting with Mike Collins of the tourism committee, the Parish Council was pleased to invite both Royalists and Parliamentarians to the town.

Cllr Collins said: “The year is 1642 and in September of that year the whole country was on the brink of war. Communities had to choose which side they supported and Thaxted was no exception.

“In 1642 East Anglia was predominately for Parliament, but is that how the town thinks now? Everyone who visits will be invited to use a 21st century method of choosing: that is to vote for one side or the other after talking to the participants and hearing why they need your vote.”

Displays and activities have been planned for the whole weekend which is open to anyone to visit - and is free.

The cannon will be fired at regular intervals; there will be musket and pike drills to watch; and children will have a chance to try it for themselves. For the less warlike visitor, there will be 17th century music and song in the church.

Full details of the times, places and activities can be found in a leaflet, available on the day from stewards, from the Thaxted, Saffron Walden and Great Dunmow tourist information centres, and on Thaxted’s new-look website at thaxted.co.uk following links to special events/living history.