SAXON and Roman re-enactors are gearing up for their annual Beltain festival at Butser Ancient Farm.
Saxon re-enactor group ‘Herigeas Hundas’ will be roaming the site, displaying costumes, weapons and Saxon life before the burning of the 30ft wickerman at dusk this Saturday.
The Butser Roman Legion will also have a presence, as its members guard their Roman villa from Celtic invaders and let the public taste Roman cooking, hold a Roman gladius and try on a Roman helmet.
Both groups will be available to talk to visitors throughout the festival.
There will be a real ale bar and hog roast for refreshment during the event while other activities and demonstrations include singing, dancing, astronomy and metalwork.
The wickerman will be burnt in a spectacle as part of a Celtic tradition to welcome in the warmer months and persuade the gods to bring a good harvest.
Tickets are online at a reduced price of £17.50 for adults or £12.50 for children. On the day, from 4.30pm, tickets are £25 and £20.
For information and to book, visit the website at www.butserancientfarm.co.uk or call 023 9259 8838.