THE sounds of 17th century battle have echoed across Otley as some 200 English Civil War Society members donned uniforms to recreate a battle, featuring muskets, pikes and cannon.

Large crowds were able to cheer on the Roundheads or Cavaliers as battles were re-enacted at Prince Henry’s Grammar School’s sports field yesterday with the event continuing today.

The Road to Marston Moor features more than just the battles, though, with a full ‘living history’ exhibition, demonstrating the culinary, craft and weapon-making skills of the period, running from noon to 4pm.

Otley Pub Club organised the free event as a way of celebrating local history, as legend has it that Cromwell’s troops drank The Black Bull pub in town dry on the eve of the Battle of Marston Moor in 1644.

The re-enactment was originally intended to take place at Wharfemeadows Park, but logistical reasons – including an expectation of large crowds – meant a change of venue to the nearby school fields.

Otley Town Council and Otley BID also helped fund the event.