THE weekend of September 15 and 16 will go down in history as the second Roman invasion of Middlewich.

But there's no need to race away in fear of being plundered and pillaged - because it's the country's number one re-enactment group that will raid the town.

The internationally-renowned Ermine Street Guard will make their first ever visit to the town to set up camp and stage a series of battles in full costume and Roman regalia.

Alongside the main re-enactment will be side shows, stalls, workshops, refreshments and guided tours adding up to a weekend full of entertainment and bringing history to life in the town.

Middlewich town clerk Jonathon Williams said: "This is an exciting and prestigious event for Middlewich and one that puts the town on the map as a centre of importance in Roman Britain."

The event is the culmination of the Roman Middlewich Project which also aims to produce a guidebook, heritage trail, library display, and tour guides.

The project organisers are hoping to involve community groups and schools in the Roman weekend. For details ring Jonathon Williams on 01606 833434, Jane Weir at Middlewich Heritage Society on 01606 836336 or county archaeologist Adrian Tindall on 01244 603160.