A POPULAR village pub will celebrate a landmark anniversary next week with a medieval banquet fit for 13th century royalty.

The Five Bells, in Colne Engaine, is commemorating 800 years of the village by hosting a feast with olde-style entertainment.

It will include traditional dishes such as roasted hog, cured meats, porridge and spiced apples, washed down by gallons of ale.

The historic public house, which has stood for more than 500 years, will fittingly provide the setting for the grand feast.

Spike the Jester will be clowning around and duo Washed Up will provide an authentic soundtrack to the gathering.

Organiser Rita Prior, who has lived in Colne Engaine for 30 years, said: “We have decided to mark the 800 years of the village by holding a medieval banquet with food of the era – there will be a three-course meal and traditional ale.

“It will also raise funds for St Andrew’s Church.”

The medieval banquet isn’t the only recognition of the village’s landmark birthday.

Author Dr Cate Gunn, who has also lived in Colne Engaine for 30 years, recently published a book detailing the rich history of the village ahead of the 800th anniversary.

The paperback, called Colne Engaine 1219, investigates the origins of the community and its history.

The Five Bells medieval banquet will take place on September 14.

Tickets cost £25 and can be bought by calling 01787 223867.