A medieval re-enactment group has been bringing the past back to life in West Norfolk to raise vital funds for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospice (EACH).

Members of Phoenix Warlords have been performing at festivals and events across the area over the last 18 months, collecting a chivalrous £2,500 to be split between EACH and the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn.

Phoenix Warlords is made up of knights, soldiers, archers and peasants who come together to provide a living history display consisting of medieval warfare, cuisine and more. They allow members of the public to try on armour, have a go at archery and demonstrate weaponry through the ages, including longbows and canons.

Among festivals at which they have raised money are the Hanse Festival in King’s Lynn, Midfest in Northampton and the Ancient Oak Medieval Fayre in Stow cum Quy. They also collected money at their own show in Emneth.

Jacqui Laws, Phoenix Warlords Secretary, said: “We decided to support EACH as most of our members have families with children, so it’s a cause close to our hearts, and the NICU as our group Commander had premature twins who benefited from their help. We’re pleased to help these two fantastic charities and new members are always welcome to help us raise funds for such good causes.”

Jason Slack, EACH West Norfolk Regional Fundraiser, added: “By ‘living in the past’ Phoenix Warlords has raised a fantastic sum of money to help us care for children and young people with life-threatening conditions and provide support for their families in Norfolk. This includes almost 50 children or family members across West Norfolk alone over the last 12 months and we couldn’t carry out this work without the generous support provided by events in the community.”

For more information about EACH go to www.each.org.uk and for more on Phoenix Warlords go to ‘Phoenix Warlords Medieval Re-enactment’ on Facebook or call Graham Wyatt on 01945 351696.