Meet the Experts: Alan Larsen and Laura Finch
Equine consultant and Norman cavalry re-enactor, 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield, East Sussex
INTERVIEW: MATT HAVERCROFT
PHOTOGRAPHS: MICHAEL BOWLES
AL In my role as an equine consultant, I organise equestrian reconstructions for live events and television filming across many historical periods, from Roman times to the First World War. This includes the annual Battle of Hastings re-enactment that takes place on the Battle of Hastings battlefield in East Sussex. It’s an amazing event that I first experienced as a rider in the Norman cavalry in the 1990 re-enactment.
AL My job is to recruit the horses and riders to represent the Norman knights who played such a crucial role in securing victory in 1066. I’m also responsible for organising the scripted elements of the re-enactment, such as the mounted arrival of King Harold, Duke William’s cameos and the death of Taillefer (a Norman minstrel). On the battlefield, I act as second-in-command to Laura, who is the Norman cavalry commander, passing on her instructions on the battlefield and making sure the cavalry are ready for her at specified times.
AL Another big part of my job is the layout and safe running of the backstage horse lines. This includes the preparation of grazing areas, organising the parking of lorries, and the provision of hay and water. I’m also responsible for organising emergency farrier and veterinary cover.
LF I first joined the Viking Society, which performs at the Battle of Hastings re-enactment, in 2005. I was invited along to an event by some friends who mysteriously went off to be Vikings at the weekend. I thought it sounded like the nerdiest thing I’d ever heard, but it piqued my curiosity, and I went along to a show. By the end of the weekend, I was standing on the battlefield in borrowed kit, holding a banner and absolutely loving life!
LF For re-enactment events that include horses, it doesn’t get any bigger than the Battle of Hastings. I’ve ridden as a Norman knight many times and the experience is phenomenal – the size and scale of the field, the thundering of hooves when the conrois (groups of knights) charge together, and the joy of working as a unit and holding the line. It’s very challenging physically but immensely satisfying. In the moment it’s quite easy to forget that you’re actually a 40-odd-year-old NHS physio from Lancashire.
LF This event is special to me as I perform as the Norman cavalry commander. We don’t all look like battle-hardened military men, but I think it’s a reflection of the inclusivity and equality our hobby provides that we can have a female commander. In our society, we have many prominent women in pivotal roles. For example, we now have our first female leader since the formation of our society around 50 years ago. I think it’s great that everyone can be recognised on their merit.
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