WARRIORS from times past clashed in Dorchester's Roman amphitheatre at the annual Gladiator Games.

Sandal-wearing swordsmen did battle for supremacy at Maumbury Rings as baying crowds cheered them on.

Celtic and Roman entertainments were re-enacted by members of the Wessex Dark Ages Society and the Hounds of Morrigan from Basingstoke.

Crowds were treated to prisoner fights, a beast hunting game, and gladiator combat using an array of evil-looking weapons.

Stalls were also available for visitors to try their hands at making chain mail and mosaics or having their runes read.

Organiser Stacie Lavis said the day had been a huge success: "It was fantastic. There were lots of people there.

"We had Celts doing sun worship and showing a traditional battle training game where they used to throw a rock at each other and defend themselves with a shield.

"Then the Romans arrived and arrested the Celts who became prisoners in the games, which were presided over by Anthony and Cleopatra.

"We had a prize for the best death scene which the crowd found very entertaining.

"Cleopatra had a difficult job deciding which one was best."

Mrs Lavis said while the 30 volunteers had tried to make the day as historically accurate as possible, the emphasis was definitely on entertainment.

She said: "Eventually we want to do a big show at Maiden Castle and we'd like to be able to put shows on over the May bank holiday weekend."

For more information about the Wessex Dark Ages Society, telephone Mrs Lavis on 01305 266315.