THOUSANDS of residents, school children and tourists took a trip through time to relive The Battle of Nantwich.

The annual event, which is organised by The Holly Holy Day and the Sealed Knot re-enactment societies, took place in and around Nantwich town centre on Saturday, January 23.

The 1644 battle was re-enacted on Mill Island, followed by Cllr Andrew Martin, mayor of Nantwich, presenting the Rose Bowl to the best regiment won by the King's Lifeguard.

Schoolchildren from across Nantwich also took part in the event, including pupils from Nantwich Primary Academy, who dressed up in historical costumes.

Wei Ling Lee, Nantwich Primary Academy principal, said: “We are always keen for the children to learn about history and by finding out about The Battle of Nantwich.

“The children were able to immerse themselves into local history and bring it alive by looking at and trying on real artefacts.”

Year 6 children spent the day at Nantwich Museum finding out about The Battle of Nantwich in preparation for Holly Holy Day.

Pupils found out about the reasons for the battle and tried on various clothes and artefacts that would have been typically worn or used at the time of the battle.

They also had a tour around Nantwich, looking at significant landmarks around the town.

Pupils from Malbank School also took part in a parade to mark the occasion.

There was plenty of entertainment throughout the day.

Performers included The Funky Choir, Josh Whittaker, Benjamin Stubbs, Sean Clark-Wilkinson, Wistaston Young Drama Group, Nantwich Players, Domesday Morris dancers, and the Plough Witches.

There was also a Living History demonstration and a horse parade.

Nantwich Museum held Civil War Tours, a musketry demonstration led by Sealed Knot, children’s activities and 17th century music from Forlorne Hope.

There was a wreath-laying ceremony at the war memorial on the town square to commemorate people who died in the Civil War Battle of Nantwich and other battles.

This year is the 372nd anniversary of the original battle, which took place on 25th January 1644.

It is the 44th time the re-enactment has taken place.