Swordsmen are among the stars of the Redcoats and Romeos event which launches Blenheim Palace's 2004 season on February 14.

The event at the Woodstock palace is the first in a series this year to mark the 300th anniversary of the Battle of Blenheim, when British general John Churchill, Duke of Marlborough, defeated the French at Blindheim, in Germany.

In gratitude, Queen Anne awarded him the manor of Woodstock and ordered the construction of Blenheim Palace.

Redcoats and Romeos, which continues until February 29, will take visitors back to the times of the battle.

They will be able to meet redcoated soldiers, who will tell them about life in Churchill's army as it fought its way across Europe, and watch displays of marksmanship with the muskets used by the soldiers.

The redcoats will be on duty every day at 10.30am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm.

Other attractions include displays by members of the Woodstock Fencing Academy, where the fencing master and his deputy will display the skills an 18th century gentleman might need to defend his honour, or his life on the battlefield. Three daily shows at 11.30am, 1.30pm and 3.30pm culminate in a duel. There will be further events and displays to mark the battle anniversary throughout the year, including an exhibition about the first Duke of Marlborough from late May until September.

For details of Redcoats and Romeos and other events at Blenheim, call 08700 602080 or visit the website at www.blenheimpalace.com