This in from Isle of Wight council, in their own words. Ed
An educational event commemorating the 1000th anniversary of a fleeing King of England who came to the Isle of Wight is taking place at Carisbrooke Castle later this week.
Six schools will be taking part in an event called ‘Flight to the Wight’ on Thursday 28 March which will be based on the visit to the Isle of Wight of King Ethelred the Unready in 1013.
1,000 anniversary
A thousand years ago, Ethelred was fleeing from the Danes who, under King Sweyn Forkbeard, were conquering England under Saxon rule. The latter was the father of King Canute, who was alleged to have tried to command the tide to halt.
Pupils from the six schools will take part in a number of activities based on Saxon times during the day, including rope making, storytelling, a tour of the castle and writing with quill pens.
Saxon and Viking history
The schools taking part have been teaching Saxon and Viking history as part of the curriculum.
The event is organised by the Isle of Wight Council’s Heritage Service and is being supported by English Heritage.
Open to the public
On Saturday 30 March, Newport’s Museum of Island History will be open free of charge where parents and the public can view work by local children based on the Saxons and Vikings as well as genuine Saxon artefacts.
The museum will be open between 10.30am and 1.30pm.
