VIDEO: Robin Hood Festival 2013

The internationally-renowned festival is bigger and better than ever this year with a week-long programme crammed full of attractions and things to do.

Visitors to the opening ceremony yesterday saw Robin taking on the Sheriff of Nottingham in battle, and enjoyed the entertainers, musicians and arts and crafts.

But the special guests were American couple Joe and Debbie Tencza, who came to Nottinghamshire from their New Jersey home especially to renew their wedding vows and celebrate 15 years of marriage at a ceremony held on the eve of this year’s festival.

Debbie (56) said: “Last year I was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent several surgeries but my wonderful husband Joe was by my side every moment and I am now cancer free in 2013.

“So this year seems like the perfect time for new beginnings and for our vow renewal as well. Sherwood Forest is the perfect place for a fresh start of the rest of our lives.”

Some of the highlights of the week are set to be the jousting and falconry displays in the main arena, while there are Medieval-themed shows at the Open Air Theatre, and entertainment taking place at the Major Oak and Shwerwood Forest Visitor Centre.

Entry to the festival is free though there is a parking charge of £5 per car.

For more information the festival visit www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/robinhood.