CROWDS lined the streets of Chepstow as actors dressed as Norman knights marched to mark the town’s 950th anniversary.

William FitzOsbern, played by Phil Hucks, led the Norman knights dressed in medieval costume with swords and shields from the original Norman market place in the High Street through the town and to Chepstow Castle on Saturday.

At the castle a speech was made by Mr Hucks playing FitzOsbern, who built the castle in 1067 a year after the Norman invasion.

In the speech he declared the castle built, re-imagining events from 950 years ago, before historical games were played.

The event, organised by Chepstow Town Council, Chepstow Society and Chepstow Museum is part of a summer of events celebrating the town’s anniversary.

Ned Heywood, who helped organise the event, said: “It was a great celebration of the town’s 950th anniversary and there will be children there who hopefully will be able to celebrate the 1,000th anniversary in 50 years time.

“These events are important because they give people a sense of the importance of where they live and a knowledge of their roots.

“People were standing on both sides of the High Street, it was a good turn out.”

Last Friday, July 7, around 300 children from Chepstow primary schools gathered together to celebrate the 950th anniversary of the town at the Le Grand Pique Nique.

The event was set up by Mike Drake of the Chepstow/Cormeilles twinning association which not only aimed to celebrate Chepstow’s 950th anniversary but also the historic link between the town and Cormeilles.

Talks about the history and aftermath of the Norman invasion are also being held to mark the 950th anniversary.

Rick Turner OBE, until recently inspector of ancient monuments for Cadw with responsibility for Chepstow Castle, will speak at the Drill Hall in Chepstow on Wednesday, July 26.

Titled 1067 and All That: The life and castles of William FitzOsbern.

Call 01291 625981 for tickets. For a full schedule of events visit chepstowfestival.co.uk