The organisation of the first Viking festival in Hemsby is gathering pace with the announcement that the re-enactment group, the Vikings of Middle England (VME), will set up their tented village for the event over the weekend of June 19-20.

The organisation of the first Viking festival in Hemsby is gathering pace with the announcement that the re-enactment group, the Vikings of Middle England (VME), will set up their tented village for the event over the weekend of June 19-20.

The group, also known by their Danish name Tyrslio, are based in Leicester and have gained a reputation for their historical accuracy, as well as providing exciting re-enactments that seek to scare, amuse and educate in a dramatic fashion.

Their village will be put up on the overspill area of Hemsby beach car park and the public will be able to walk through and observe the Vikings carrying on their daily life. A display area will also be set up where they will re-enact battle scenes.

According to historical legend, after the Vikings had settled in the area, a dispute arose between two tribes in Hemsby and neighbouring Somerton, which led to a pitched battle.

Festival committee spokesman Stuart Reeve said: “The VME were fascinated by this story and have asked to write a scenario based on this, so visitors can see a re-enactment of a proper local legend. To get this group to come to our festival is a real coup as they are one of the top re-enactment groups in the whole country.”

The festival is the brainchild of brand strategy guru Simon Middleton, who has helped businesses in Hemsby to re-brand the resort and celebrate the area's Viking heritage.