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Lost Film Reveals First Reenactment of Famous Battle

English Heritage will screen a newly restored film of the 1966 Battle of Hastings reenactment at Battle Abbey on Saturday and Sunday, capturing the first modern recreation of the historic 1066 clash.
Hastings Town Council commissioned electronics business owner Alan Wootton to document the 1966 event commemorating the 900th anniversary of the battle, using his innovative sound system to enhance the film.
Son Cliff Wootton restored the footage after inheriting 300 reels, which English Heritage says shows a 'rather relaxed attitude towards health and safety' as reenactors marched through Battle High Street near horses.
English Heritage is searching for original 1966 participants to join as special guests at this weekend's reenactment, now in its 60th year, hoping to identify foot soldiers recruited from Sussex and Kent universities.
Following the Bayeux Tapestry's arrival at the British Museum, interest in 1066 history has surged; site manager James Witcombe described the restored footage as 'an incredible time capsule' of the reenactment's evolving tradition.

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Rare colour footage of historic battle re-enactment restored after 60 years

A remarkable colour film has been restored, capturing first-ever regular Battle of Hastings re-enactment.

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Hundreds of British College Students Clashed With Wooden Swords in a 1966 Re-enactment of the Battle of Hastings. Watch the Rediscovered 'Time Capsule' of Lost Footage

A local videographer shot 300 reels of color film during the re-enactment, which shows "soldiers on foot getting remarkably close to horses" and "a rather relaxed attitude towards health and safety." The event sparked an annual tradition that continues to this day

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