PICTURES: Thousands flock to forest festival

Visitors came from far and wide for the Robin Hood Festival at Sherwood Forest Country Park, near Edwinstowe, to see entertaining scuffles between the arch rivals Robin Hood and the Sheriff of Nottingham, colourful displays with costumed characters, medieval music, craft stalls, storytelling, comedy and to have a go at archery.

Air traffic controller Drew Kalina, aged 26, and 30-year-old aerospace mechanic Kyle Glotzbach, 30, who are originally from the US but now live in Suffolk said they had been eager to come for years – and had finally made it.

Drew said: “It’s fantastic to be here. Obviously we grew up watching shows about Robin Hood on TV so its been really fun for us.”

Dr Mamoj Withanathantrige, 35, from London, said he had come to visit the Major Oak for the day – and the festival was a surprise added bonus.

He said: “I didn’t realise it was going to be on, so it’s been a great surprise. We have enjoyed ourselves.

Mary Glancy, owner of Pilgrims Pottery, who was selling her ceramic wares, said she had been coming to the festival for the past few years.

She said: “It’s a good event, we enjoy coming here. Everyone always seems to have a great time.”

Councillor John Cottee, Nottinghamshire County Council communities and place committee chairman, said: “We attract visitors from across the UK and from abroad to visit iconic Sherwood Forest and celebrate the world’s favourite medieval outlaw.”