SCENES like these could be returning to Stow-on-the-Wold as organisers look to recreate a famous battle once again.

The Battle of Stow, which took place in 1646, was restaged in the town by history lovers in 1997.

The people behind the popular Cotswold Festival have revealed they are hoping to stage another re-enactment of the famous Civil War event.

Chairman Keith Cox said if enough people supported the second 17th century-themed Cotswold Festival in September, money could start going into the pot.

He said: "We want to repeat that huge event, which was unbelievably successful – it was awe-inspiring."

Thousands of spectators turned out for the re-enactment by the Sealed Knot, which put the town on the map.

Keith said: "The soldiers marched from their camp near Broadwell, down the Fosseway and into the field at the top of Evesham Road, which was a natural arena with amazing views.

"But we need to raise enough money to do it again – it's going to take many thousands of pounds.

"The first festival had about 2,000 visitors, and we hope to increase that. Once we build up this event we can then go for something much bigger and better."

The festival is already stepping up a gear with two 200-strong skirmishes by the Sealed Knot in the cricket field on September 17 and 18.

The Square will be packed with stalls, entertainers such as jesters, the Sealed Knot's living history, and demonstrations and workshops of traditional crafts.

It is also hoped to arrange for Sealed Knot members, dressed as Cavaliers and Roundheads, to visit schools to explain the Battle of Stow and the Civil War.

The event kicks off with an antiques lunch, with guest speaker Thomas Plant, the BBC's Bargain Hunt, Flog it! and Antiques Road Trip expert on September 16.

He will also do a mini auction and run a valuation morning.

The Oxford Welsh Male Voice Choir will perform in St Edward's Church and there will be a themed feast at St Edward's Hall on the Saturday.

The last festival raised £2,000 for charities, including Kate's Home Nursing, Stow Youth Club, the Royal British Legion Benevolent Fund and Linc.