A TASTE of winter in medieval times returned to the custodian’s cottage, facing the ruins of Furness Abbey, 20 years ago.
The Mail, on December 6 in 1999, noted: “The aptly named Frost Fair featured craft stalls in the cottage and medieval sports, such as foot jousting, took place outside in the amphitheatre.”
There was sleet, hail and snow – and gales - during part of the event but it couldn’t stop the fun as youngsters covered themselves in blankets and sacking.
The article noted: “The fair was presented by people who have been taking part in medieval craft classes run by Iain McNicol.”
There was a display of pottery, carved stones, glass, puppets and leather bracelets made by children at the classes.
Visitors to the Frost Fair could pay 25p to challenge a medieval chess master – with winners getting their money back.
It was part of a wider scheme by Community Action Furness to restore the cottage as a living history museum.
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