Police Appeal for Witnesses After Sword Accident Leaves Performer in Hospital
Police are appealing for witnesses after a man was seriously injured during a living history event at Bodiam Castle on Sunday afternoon (29 June).
The incident happened just before 3pm during a staged combat re-enactment, when a 37-year-old man from Horsham was struck in the head. He was wearing body armour, but his opponent’s sword is believed to have entered his visor during the duel.
Emergency services attended the scene, and the injured man was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton, where he remains in a serious condition.
Detective Inspector Barry Chandler said:
“A man was unfortunately injured during the combat re-enactment. We are treating the incident as an accident and are offering support to his family.”
The man’s opponent, a 36-year-old also from Horsham, is cooperating with police alongside the event organisers.
The event, which drew a large crowd to the historic castle, may have been distressing to those in attendance. Officers are now asking for anyone who witnessed the incident or captured it on camera to come forward.
“We are appealing to anyone who has photographs or videos of the interaction that led to the injury to contact us so we can gain a clear understanding of what happened,” DI Chandler added.
Anyone with information is urged to call 101, quoting reference 806 of 29/06.
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