YEAR Six pupils who will move up to the Dean Academy in September got to grips with the medieval times as part of a special-themed week at the Lydney school.

A camp sprang up on the school's field where pupils from across the Forest could try archery, armoury and cookery which was all provided by Matthew of Monmouth, Will of Gloucester and Mistress Mary, aka Matt Lion, Les Shepperd and Marilyn Shepperd from Companions of the Forest.

Les said: "Our aim is to raise awareness of local history and to enthuse children about it. Our workshops give them an entertaining and hands on experience of the past. We want to share our love of history with others and stimulate their interest in it."

The week was rounded off with a fantastic falconry display by the International Centre for Birds of Prey which brought in five birds for a flying demonstration and an extended question and answer session for the whole school.

Mrs Alison Ball, who organised the event, said: "It was a great way to finish off an inspirational week provided by the staff at the academy and our visiting experts with a unique opportunity for the children to get up close to such beautiful creatures."