Malton Museum took visitors back to Roman times at a successful festival on Saturday.

Held in Orchard Fields, the event included live action demonstrations from the Roman Cavalry by Equistry, marching and battle sequences from Magister Militum, Roma Antiqua and Legio VI Victrix.

The well-known re-enactment groups also had military encampments that demonstrated the changes in military equipment and Roman life throughout the 400 years of Roman occupation of Britannia.

There was plenty to interest children including a “Children's Roman Army” segment, mosaic making, paint your own shield, wax tablet drawing, and ‘archaeological digs’, as well as being able to dress up as an Ancient Briton or a Roman Soldier.

A‘mini Malton Museum’ included displays from Roman interest groups in the region, as well as a number of authors who covered the period in their work including Simon J Turney, Simon Elliot, Kate Cunningham and Julian Morgan,

A spokesperson for Malton Museum said: "One can only imagine the ancient Roman Gods were watching as Malton Museum held their family-friendly Roman Festival.

"The team of volunteers who organised the festival had hoped to run it during the school holidays in July, but heavy rain saw it postponed.

"As the event opened, a steady stream of visitors helped to get the day off to a good start, especially after Jupiter (the Roman god of the weather) behaved and the sun came out! Many of the volunteers dressed up in Roman costume to help add authenticity to the event, and excitement ratcheted up when the legionaries marched around the camp.

"The arena displays saw Equistry, Magister Militum and Legio VI Victrix display their equestrian and marching skills in the arena. The highlight was the Kids’ Roman Army who brought their newly decorated swords and shields to the arena for a drill session - in Latin no less!

"Around the site there were various displays of Roman interest and a number of prominent authors were on hand to discuss their work. As lunch time approached, business was steady at the food outlets, including Bistro Guy, Malton Relish and Carol’s Sweet Treats. There was even a “pop-up” Taverna run by Ryedale Vineyards.

"As the vibrant family festival drew to a close, our volunteers manning the gates reported visitors of all ages leaving with broad smiles.

“Everybody had a great time and many have asked if we are doing it again in 2024 - all I can say is watch this space.”