A Norfolk village is set to take a trip back to the Dark Ages this weekend when its millennium celebrations get into full swing.

A Norfolk village is set to take a trip back to the Dark Ages this weekend when its millennium celebrations get into full swing.

More than 130 Viking re-enactors from across the country are expected to descend on Mill Field, in Bridgham, near Thetford, to mark the village's 1,000th anniversary.

Hundreds of visitors are expected for the free two-day Viking event, which was funded by a lottery grant of almost £9,000.

Highlights of the weekend will be re-enactments of the 1004 Battle of Thetford at 3pm on Saturday and the 1010 Battle of Ringmere at 3pm on Sunday by the country's oldest and biggest Dark Age re-enactment group, The Vikings.

Villagers will also be dressing up for a medieval fete on Saturday afternoon, which will include a Viking long ship procession, Aelfwaru pageant, and the world premiere of a specially commi-ssioned overture by the Bridgham and Harling Band.

A history exhibition, weapons demonstrations and archery will be available on both days, with the weekend ending with a choral evensong attended by the Bishop of Norwich and the cathedral choir at 6pm on Sunday.