Sarah Brealey Yarmouth residents are being invited to a medieval feast in revival of an 800-year-old tradition.The celebration is being held to mark the 800th anniversary of the granting of the King John charter as part of a year of festivities.

Sarah Brealey

Yarmouth residents are being invited to a medieval feast in a revival of an 800-year-old tradition.

The celebration is being held to mark the 800th anniversary of the granting of the King John charter as part of a year of festivities, and residents are invited to attend - if they can afford £40 a head for a ticket.

Organised by the borough council, it is being held in the south aisle of the parish church of St Nicholas on May 17, which is Trinity Eve.

It is a revival of an annual event which was held every Trinity Sunday for 300 years after the charter was granted in 1208. The charter gave the burgesses of the town considerable rights and freedoms, and helped to establish the town's prosperity.

Laura Goodman, mayoral and civic events officer, said she hoped people would still attend, despite the cost, as it was a one-off event.

"We have to cover our costs. These things are not cheap to put on. We have to hire tables, hot cupboards, kitchen equipment. The price does include a bottle of Charter Ale and a commemorative goblet."

The medieval-style menu includes a broth of vegetables and cereal, followed by salmon served on leaves, and platters of roast beef, whole roast capon and roast pork which will be laid out on the table. Between courses will be served fromerty, a medieval palate-cleanser consisting of boiled wheat, eggs and sugar, a bit like porridge.

Those attending are encouraged to wear medieval costume, and entertainment will be provided by minstrels, jesters and fire-eaters.

The event is limited to 170 people, and tickets are available from 01493 846125.