THERE were knights, maidens, archers and sheriffs a-plenty at Dunmow St Mary s Primary School as pupils learned about medieval times last week. The day ended a term spent studying the era when longbows were the weapon of choice, and pupils and staff dress

THERE were knights, maidens, archers and sheriffs a-plenty at Dunmow St Mary's Primary School as pupils learned about medieval times last week.

The day ended a term spent studying the era when longbows were the weapon of choice, and pupils and staff dressed up in costumes from the period.

Nina Steeples, Year 3 teacher who was dressed as a maiden, said: "The children have been studying medieval times all term and have been learning medieval dances, how to juggle and how people dressed. This day brings everything together."

Michael Demark from Bishop's Stortford Archery Club showed the pupils, a traditional longbow and other equipment a medieval archer would have used.

Mr Denmark spent his time explaining to small groups about bracers and quivers.

He also showed the children a variety of medieval arrow heads and explained their various uses. He then gave a demonstration of shooting techniques in a shooting range, set up especially in the school field.

"The children thought

Michael's archery talk and display was fantastic. They were extremely excited about it all," said Miss Steeples.