Latest news with #PhilHirst
Leader Live
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Leader Live
Reenactment group Ermine Street Guard at Hope site
The massed ranks of the famous Ermine Street Guard, Britain's oldest and largest Roman reenactment group, is making its first visit to Park in the Past, Hope, offering a spectacular and immersive experience into the world of ancient Rome. Over the weekend of July 19-20, visitors will have the unique opportunity to witness the military might of Rome before their eyes. The Ermine Street Guard are coming to Park in the Past. The Ermine Street Guard will present an exciting display that showcases the armour, equipment, tactics and the sheer power of the war machine that enabled Rome to conquer vast territories, including the mysterious province of Britannia located at the end of the known world. Visitors will marvel at a column of elite legionaries - citizens soldiers who formed the backbone of the Roman army - alongside auxiliary standard bearers and a veteran centurion, all in full authentic regalia. Read more: Park operations director Paul Harston said: "The Ermine Street Guard are the most impressive Roman Military group in the country and are famous throughout the land and Europe. We are delighted and honoured to host one of their amazing events". In addition to the impressive military presentation, the event will feature a meticulously recreated living camp, complete with two rare replica hand-stitched leather tents. Visitors can explore displays of tools, food, and medical equipment used by the Imperial Roman army as they established new provinces and engaged in daily life on the frontiers of the Empire. The Ermine Street Guard are coming to Park in the Past. Media director Phil Hirst added: "The Guard have appeared in countless documentaries and films for over four decades. They have led the way in making ancient history accessible and presenting the glory that was Rome to Roman Empire." The Ermine Street Guard promises an entertaining and educational experience for all ages, blending historical accuracy with presentations. This is an opportunity for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the Roman Empire to delve into the past and gain a deeper understanding of the legacy that continues to shape our world today. The event at Park in the Past, Hope, takes place on Saturday July and Sunday July 20, from 10am-5pm Tickets (child £6.24, adult £10.38) are bookable online at or payable on the gate.
Leader Live
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Leader Live
Event at Park in the Past on the Wrexham-Flintshire border
Park in the Past, in Hope, hosted Auxilia: Rome's Cutting Edge, taking place over two days of immersive fun, showcasing the essential role of the auxiliary forces in shaping the military and cultural landscape of Roman Britain. The family-friendly event brought history to life, and included Britain's Big Fort Build - a unique experimental archaeology challenge to build a full-scale size authentic Roman fort - set in a 120-acre landscaped venue, and chance to 'Meet the Romans'. Auxilia: Rome's Cutting Edge event at Park in the Past. Picture: Karl Eastwood Operations director and organiser Paul Harston said: "Our annual Auxilia event is now a firm favourite with people, attracting visitors from all over the UK who want a taste of life in Roman Britain. Read more: Family fun as Chester Racecourse hosts 'Roman Day' "In fact, Park in the Past is the only place in the country where you can enjoy an exciting immersive experience in a full-size reconstructed Roman fort, populated with Roman infantry soldiers and cavalry performing displays, as well as craftspeople and traders demonstrating their skills." Media and PR director Phil Hirst added: "We're really delighted that hundreds of families and visitors flocked to the Park and were amazed to see how fantastic it looks with our new commander's HQ building. "The fort was buzzing with activity and our living history camp felt like a huge film set. In July, the famous Ermine Street Guard reenactment group are descending on the fort to wow visitors with their drills and displays."
