Restored Battle of Hastings film sparks search for surviving reenactors

Filmed by Alan Wootton and his team, the project was a product of the Hastings-based electronics company Alan owned with his wife, Mary, where they developed an affordable system to add sound to silent home movies. The 1966 reenactment commemorated the 900th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings and was part of several local celebrations that year.

James Witcombe, English Heritage site manager for Battle Abbey, said: "This film is an incredible time capsule. It captures not only the first regular Battle of Hastings reenactment but also the atmosphere of an event that continues, to this day, to bring history to life for thousands of people almost 1,000 years after the original battle. Some of what we see in Alan's film is certainly a reminder of just how much reenactment – and health and safety – has changed over the past 60 years! We will be showing it in the school library during this year's reenactment and know that our visitors will love this insight into the origins of the event."

He added: "We would love to hear from anyone who took part in that first event. We know many of the original foot soldiers were recruited from Sussex and Kent universities, but we have no record of names. If you recognise yourself, or a friend or relative, please get in touch. We'd love to invite surviving 1966 reenactors to join us as special guests at this weekend's reenactment."

Following Alan's death, his wife, Mary, entrusted their son, Cliff, with Alan's collection of 300 film reels. Cliff has been gradually reviewing, processing, and enhancing the footage. In preparation for the 2026 anniversary, he has released the film—now featuring a soundtrack by the historical musician Jonny Dyer—to English Heritage.

In 1966, Cliff and his brother Den assisted their father as sound recordists during the filming.

Cliff said: "I was just 12 years old, but Dad had me helping him at the 1966 reenactment, so I was right there in the middle of it all. I remember it being a huge event and it was fascinating to work on the footage again after all these years. We're hugely proud of what Dad and Mum achieved with their film and sound equipment, and are delighted that English Heritage will be showing it to so many other people who share an interest in this fantastic piece of British history."

The film will be screened for the first time in decades during this weekend's reenactment events on October 10 and 11.

Tickets for this weekend's reenactment are now available from www.english-heritage.org.uk/battle

Visitors can also download the Bloomberg Connects Guide to Battle Abbey for free at https://guides.bloombergconnects.org/en-GB/guide/battleAbbey