AN HISTORIC church will host an event marking the 600th anniversary of the Battle of Agincourt and the role of a local landowner in Henry V’s famous victory.


Wapley man John De Codrington was standard bearer to the king when the English army overcame a much bigger French force on Saint Crispin’s Day, 1415.


The medieval-themed day will take place at the 13th century Wapley church on Sunday, October 25, after Dodington Parish Council agreed to donate £1,500.


Dodington’s Jennifer Shiles persuaded the parish community, leisure and environment committee to back the event at the Wapley Hill church from 10am to 6pm, finishing with an evening service until 7.30pm.


Mrs Shiles said: “The aim is to bring together different groups, activities and demonstrations. The activities include flute, recorder, medieval music, archers, bell ringing, stained glass making and bee keeping.


“Many of these groups are local, but some come from further away. This special occasion will benefit residents, adults and children, who can have fun, be involved, interested and educated.”


Councillors unanimously agreed to fund the event, which has also received a £100 donation from an anonymous church-goer, meaning Mrs Shiles can begin to make concrete plans.


Cllr Paul Hulbert, chairman of the community, leisure and environment committee, said: “There is an interesting local link as John De Codrington was a landowner local to Wapley.


“There is a memorial tomb in the church for him, but he isn’t actually in there as the time they did these things was more for show.


“There are suspicions he is buried somewhere at the church, under debris from when the church was tilting and fell apart.


“I am really pleased we have been able to help Jeni fund the event and will be offering my help in every way as we get closer to it.”


Mrs Shiles added: “I’m absolutely amazed the council are helping to fund this. Now a lot of work needs to be done and I will need the full six months to get everything sorted.


“This will be a free event, where donations will be welcomed for the upkeep of the church.


To help at the event, call Mrs Shiles on 07879 680118.