GOODRICH Castle was used as part of a special event to mark the 950th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings.

The castle, near Ross-on-Wye, saw Gloucestershire pupils re-enact a battle, discover Norman architecture, and learn about the lives and dress of the people of Norman England.

Overlooking the Wye Valley, Goodrich Castle is one of the best preserved medieval castles in England.

The Domesday Book of 1086 records a nearby fishery belonging to Godric Mappeson, who may have given his name to ‘Godric’s Castle’, first recorded in 1101-2.

The castle’s Norman keep (constructed 1138-76) contains fine examples of Norman architecture, with thick walls, rounded arch windows and chevron decoration.

Millbrook Academy pupils visited the castle on October 14 to coincide with the 950th anniversary.