A man wearing armour has suffered a serious head injury during a battle re-enactment when a sword pierced his visor at a historic Sussex castle. The 37-year-old from Horsham was rushed to hospital following the accident at Bodiam Castle near Robertsbridge on Sunday, 29th June.
The incident occurred just before 3pm during a living history demonstration that had drawn a large crowd of spectators. Sussex Police confirmed the man was wearing full body armour when his opponent's sword entered his visor during the combat re-enactment.
Man remains in serious condition
Emergency services transported the injured re-enactor to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton, where he remains in a serious condition. Police are treating the incident as an accident and are providing support to the man's family during this difficult time.
Detective Inspector Barry Chandler said: "A man was unfortunately injured during the combat re-enactment. We are treating the incident as an accident and we are offering support to his family." The officer confirmed that both the opponent, a 36-year-old man also from Horsham, and the event organisers are assisting police with their inquiries.
Police appeal for witness footage
Sussex Police have launched an appeal for witnesses who may have captured the incident on camera. Officers are particularly keen to speak to anyone who has photographs or videos of the interaction that led to the injury.
Detective Inspector Chandler acknowledged that anyone who witnessed the scene could have found it distressing. Police understand the re-enactment had attracted a large crowd of spectators to the popular East Sussex tourist attraction.
The force is asking anyone with relevant footage to come forward so they can gain a clear understanding of exactly what happened during the demonstration. The investigation continues as the injured man receives treatment in hospital.
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
