History of abbey to be recreated in festival play

One of the highlights will be performances of a new play to tell the dramatic story of how Selby Abbey was first created.

Devised and performed by Selby Abbey Drama Group, with props made by the Year Six pupils of Brotherton and Byram Community Primary School, the play will tell the tale of Benedict of Auxerre, thief, monk, miracle-worker and abbot.

There will also be opportunities to handle special archaeological finds and see historic crafts in action as well the chance to see a new temporary exhibition exploring the founding of the abbey in Selby.

Jane Stockdale, audience development manager for the JORVIK Group, which is staging the event, said: “My colleagues and I have been amazed by the generosity and enthusiasm of the people of Selby in their preparations for their Medieval Day. Working with the abbey, school and with clients at Kingfisher Place day-care facility, we have come up with a fun-packed programme for the day.”

The event is part of the annual Yorkshire Medieval Festival, which celebrates the county’s close links with the Middle Ages. For more information visit www.yorkshire-medieval-festival.com