FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where are you based?
We are based around the Midlands area of England, however we have members from all over the country come and join us at events. We attend lots of events in the Warwickshire, Gloucestershire, Shropshire & Worcestershire areas. We also attend some events a bit further afield, such as Wales and Yorkshire.
What period do you re-enact?
The group re-enacts the Royal Warwickshire Regiments’ return to France on Sword beach, Normandy, June 6th, 1944, up until the disastrous attack on Lebisey Wood on June 7th.
How frequently do you meet?
We meet up around once a month, usually at events. Some are single day events others are two days, where we end up camping for the weekend. Not all of our members camp, so if camping is not your thing, or you only want to come to one day of a two day event that is absolutely fine.
Do you do training nights / days?
We do have some training days, but most of our training is usually done at re-enactment events, sometimes as part of our display, sometimes out of the view of the public.
How much is it to join the group?
There is no membership fee to join the group, although we require you to become a member of the Worcestershire Reenactors; for your own public liability and indemnity insurance.
How many events do I have to come to?
There are no set numbers of events that you have to attend; you do what you can when you can. We do like as many people as possible to come to the AGM (normally late November/early December), where we set the events schedule for the coming year, and generally socialise.
How do I start off?
By using either the 'contact us' page or Facebook links at the bottom of this page. We will do our best to get back to you quickly, although please bear in mind if it’s at the weekend we may be sat in a trench!!
Come and visit us. Check out our calendar and see what event you would like to meet us at. If you want send us an e-mail saying you are coming over and would like to chat, feel free. We will be more than willing to talk to you, come and see what we do and chat to other members of the group.
What type of events do you do?
We do two main types of event:
1. We have displays of what one man carried on D-Day, and the equipment the French Resistance used. Members will be kitted out in either “Walking out” uniform or full “battle” webbing, or as members of the French Resistance. We will give displays in military drill and weapons drills, informing the public of the life of the average soldier.
2. Living history: Generally multi-day events, whereby a typical British camp is set up and members live as a “Tommy” would have done. Again drill demonstrations, answering questions from the public, as well as section assault drills and public battles are typical for these types of events.
Do I need to purchase everything before my first event?
What we say is – “The first one is on us”. We will do our best to find enough uniform to kit you out for the day. Try it out and if you don’t enjoy it, it’s been good to meet you. If you decide to stay then you can start you own uniform collection, we will do our best to help out; it’s not unusual for new members to borrow certain items for the day.
How much will it cost?
Not an easy question to answer. It will depend on
where you purchase the uniform and kit from and at
what price you can secure it for. As a general guide
the Army “Walking out” impression will be somewhere
in the region of £350.00 complete. From this point
you can work towards getting the additional “battle”
equipment (webbing, small pack etc). This will also
depend on if you intend to carry “Full weight” i.e.
full equipment in the pack, or not, as obviously
this will add to the cost. This will round out your
impression, though it is not essential and you would
still be able to join in the battles. French
Resistance impressions can vary, we would recommend
seeking assistance with clothing & weapons for
an FFI impression from the group before purchase.
You will the need to add the cost of any weaponary
you may require.
Can you give me advice on what to purchase?
Yes, absolutely. There is a wealth of knowledge within the group to ensure that you buy period correct gear, as it changed slightly throughout the duration of the war.
Can I specialise?
Yes. However all new members start off their time with the group as a private soldier or member of the French Resistance. It is in this way that the essentials of weapons safety are learned and understood along with the structure of a section, platoon, company etc (if appropriate).
Will I need a Fire Arms Certificate (FAC)?
No: We use both deactivated & blank firing weapons for which you do not need an FAC. However you can apply for an FAC or variation if you wish.