FAMILIES cheered on the county’s bravest knights in a mighty jousting tournament at Blenheim Palace at the weekend.

The gallant Knights of Royal England competed in a skills tournament, galloping to pick up Saracens’ heads from the ground and fighting in hand-to-hand combat.

They then competed in dramatic jousts, galloping to meet each other with a lance, with only a shield and helmet to protect them.

The event at the stately home in Woodstock drew thousands of people, helped by the good weather.

Spokesman Heather Carter said up to 6,000 people had turned up.

She said: “We have locals coming back time and time again because of the music and the atmosphere. The knights have been busy jousting and tormenting each other, and families are just enjoying the grounds in the lovely weather.”

Visitors to the event also enjoyed a host of other medieval activities, including falconry displays and archery.