PAINFUL and unhygienic methods used to treat wounds and life-threatening ailments in the 17th century are revealed in a fascinating account of the life and work of a Civil War surgeon at Goodrich Castle on July 1 and 2.

Period-costumed practitioner Obadiah Ringwood will explain how wounded soldiers were as much at risk from their treatment as their injury.

Though surgeons used state-of-the-art methods for the time, the lack of anesthetic and unsterile conditions meant sufferers would often die from shock or infection.

Despite his lack of success, the barber surgeon was still a respected lifesaver, also responsible for keeping troops clean-shaven and pulling their aching teeth.

Obadiah has a collection of period tools of his trade, including early versions of familiar surgical instruments like scalpels.

He describes how simple ailments were once killers and talks about outmoded treatments like bleeding and trepanning - drilling a hole in the head - to relieve pressure on the brain.

The occasion is part of a 1,000-event spectacular being staged a tmore than 100 English Heritage properties countrywide for the year 2000.

For more details call Goodrich Castle on 01600 890538.