AUTHENTIC weapons and outfits impressed locals at a re-enactment gathering of 17th-century soldiers at a pub in Chippenham at the weekend.

Re-enactment group The Sealed Knot brought their best soldiers to the Lysley Arms on Saturday where they told the story of their history.

The group showed off weapons and drills from the period and led craft sessions.

James Daniels, a member of the The Sealed Knot re-enactment group, said: “The Lysley Arms is an old 18th-century coaching house that possibly replaced an old stopover point.

“It is very likely that sections of armies would have marched past this site at some point.

“As such we are representing a small advance scouting Royalist force around July 8, 1643.

“The event was for patrons of the Lysley, both old and new, to come along and meet a 17th-century soldier in a relaxed atmosphere, and indulge in some of the lovely food and drink that the Lysley has to offer.

“We were also showing the weapons and drills of the period along with a few crafts which were enjoyed.”