What is it that makes me think a pith helmet with dodos on it would be a great addition to my wardrobe?
That's what happens when I wander around the reenactors market. Not a hobby I have any desire to get in to, but it's a fascinating event.
It's also a busy one. I thought I'd leave it until lunchtime on Saturday, half-time as it's a three day show, and people were still queing out of the door, with two ticket desks operating. A third was set up an hour later.
After a quick lunch, I started to wander. This isn't my first visit to this event. It's only 10 minutes drive away, and at £4.50, entrance is cheap enough for mild curiosity. Picking up unusual Christmas presents for friends and family with an interest in history makes it worth the visit.
The range of reenactors is much bigger than you might expect. We've all heard of the Sealed Knot, but you can be a Roman soldier, or Edwardian gentleperson, or indulge in some Steampunk. In fact, the Steampunk stuff seemed more popular this year than in the past.
Part of my reason for visiting was research for a new novel I'm writing with Nolan. One of the character is into cosplay, and while there isn't a handy event for that hobby nearby, there is crossover with this one. You can buy metal weapons to bash each other with, but also foam-based versions, which is what our character is likely to be making.
By the time I'd left, my rucksack contained a few presents, and also an unexpected tweed jacket for me. Well, as the editor of the UK's Premier garden railway magazine, I need to be suitably atired at all times.
Cake? Delicious Victoria sponge. With hot chocolate, as I was treating myself.
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