Huge flames engulf Viking boat as crowds gather to celebrate Equinox at Butser Ancient Farm - pictures

Spectacular costumes complete with Viking and Saxon regalia were on display

Excited crowds were amazed to see a Viking boat burning festival at Butser Ancient Farm.

Families watched on as flames engulfed the bonfire with organisers watching on. Volunteers dressed in Viking and Saxon regalia performed historical ceremonies.

Live folk music, dramatic reenactor battles, local artists and creators all gathered together to put on a variety of shows for the public. Environmental artists Mark and Rebecca Ford of Two Circles Design created the 13.5m hand crafted Viking longship before it was set on fire.

Buster Ancient Farm is an experimental archaeology site nestled in the South Downs, offering the public a chance to take a glimpse into the age of the Vikings and Saxons.

The boat burning festival is one of the site’s biggest fundraising events of the year, helping support the running of the heritage landmark. Here are a collection of spectacular pictures from the event.

The majority of images are available to purchase should you wish to do so on our Photosales section, or you can call 0330 403 0033 or email [email protected].

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