The re-enacting Hampdens was founded in 1974, and has welcomed recruits from all walks of life ever since. As a new member, what might you expect?

First and foremost, between Easter and September, you'd be taking part in events up and down the country. For mid-August 2007, for example, we'll be joining everyone from the Romans to Old Contemptibles for a multi-period spectacular under the English Heritage banner at Kelmarsh Hall in Northamptonshire. Like three other events this year, it's a "Major Muster" - a big event where the whole of the English Civil War Society gets together - horse, foot and cannon - to do battle! Outside these marker events in the calendar, there are a whole host of other events to choose from - everything from village fetes to carefully-observed living histories at heritage sites. In the past few years, we've expanded our range abroad, visiting the USA in 1999, and with our friends from the Open Rope we have regularly attended L'Assedio di Canelli, an atmospheric and dramatic re-enactment in northwestern Italy, regarded by many of our members as the highlight of the year.