Words by VOS volunteer Chris
On 19th October 1453, the seemingly never-ending conflict between England and France – the Hundred Years War – finally came to an end. Our History lessons taught us that, in actual fact, the war ultimately lasted for nearly 116 years, not 100.
Indeed, history seems to show us that we were fighting with France almost continuously from the Norman Conquest in 1066 until the Entente Cordiale in 1904.
It seems (kind of) appropriate, then, that on 19th October 2024, a small group from Veterans Outreach Support should visit Portchester Castle, a bastion which in no small way was constructed by the French and/or in our defence against them.
A potted history of Portchester Castle
The story of Portchester Castle is well documented and it is needless to say that a stronghold existed where it now stands long before the Norman invasion. The Romans spotted that its location was one of strategic importance and constructed a fort there as long ago as the 3rd Century, if not before.
It is now recognised as the best preserved Roman fort north of the Alps. The Saxons continued using the site and there is evidence that it was a place of high status to them too. Skip forward 400 – 500 years when William the Conqueror rocked up and he and his associates added the castle which we recognise today.
Over the centuries that followed, the French connection continued when various monarchs of both England and France showed great interest in Portchester Castle. Edward II spent a great deal of money on its upkeep. Henry Vlll brought Anne Boleyne there but it’s reported that it was in a state of some dilapidation as Portsmouth had become his favoured point of defence against our age-old foes by then.
Leap forward to the Napoleonic Wars and the Castle became a gaol for over 7,000 French prisoners, some of whom made a dramatic impact within the castle – the evidence of which remains and was witnessed by our visiting party.
VOS return to Portchester Castle
At the start of our visit on a bright and sunny day, we were met at the bridge over the moat by Bob Kenny (also a member of VOS) resplendently kitted out as the Constable of Portchester Castle.
His colleagues Mark the Archer, Rachel the Lady and Brother Geoff followed up; all of whom stayed in character throughout. In turn, each of these authentically attired troupers led us across the bridge and through the gates, then into the Inner Bailey, all the way commenting on interesting facts delivered with an enthusiasm which was contagious.
Bob described the defences that controlled entry, Mark the use of the longbow in doing so. Brother Geoff told us of the power and authority of the church at the time and he also bore a crossbow, comparing it with Mark’s longbow. Lady Rachel filled in the gaps with informative historical facts about the life and times of the people who were there.
We proceeded to the palace built by Richard II and again heard in great detail about the construction, purpose and function of this latest addition to the castle. Each of our hosts were clearly well-informed and knowledgeable; I personally came away having learnt much more than I ever have before in my numerous previous visits to Portchester.
Moving on, we entered the ground level of the Keep where we were shown the remnants of what was an impressive and highly successful theatre, built in the main by French POWs. It had proved to be so good in its time that some of the surrounding theatres called for its closure as it was taking away their regular custom.
The French detainees also became well known for their creation of fine lace and bone carvings which served as what we would now call souvenirs. Many examples are on display in a museum adjacent to the theatre.
Another brilliant day out with VOS
Having finished here, we happily thanked our hosts for their time, efforts and what we all agreed was a splendid flow of presentations. Almost two hours had passed in what seemed like no time at all.
Then our party split to explore the standing castle, some climbed the 100’ to the top of the Keep, others went to see the historical graffiti carved on a wall by the many who previously lived and worked or were incarcerated here.
I and a couple of others found ourselves in the shop where the free wine sampling was going down. It was then out to sit in the sun and enjoy the refreshments from a mobile canteen which served free drinks to Veterans. This was a fitting place to relax and chat about the splendid visit we had just enjoyed.
It was yet another excellent event arranged by VOS for its members at no cost. All you had to do in this instance was get yourself there. My only surprise is that there are not more takers for this sort of great opportunity.
That aside, all that remains to say is thank you once more to the splendid volunteers at Portchester Castle who gave us a good couple of hours of informative entertainment and to Wendy and VOS for making it possible.
Bravo à vous tous!
VOS is here to support veterans from the UK Armed Forces service, the Merchant Navy, and their partners. If you know a veteran (from any time of service) located in Portsmouth, the Isle of Wight, Gosport, Fareham or the Solent area, please pass our details along.
If you’re a veteran or partner and are thinking about getting in touch, we would love to hear from you. Call us on 02392 731 767, visit one of our drop-ins, or email admin@vosuk.org.
Please note that VOS is not a crisis service. If you need immediate support, please contact one of the following:
- Your GP or NHS 111
- Attend A&E or call 999 for medical emergencies
- The Samaritans on 116 123 (24 hours a day, 365 days a year)
- A trusted family member or friend
