About Us

Stormbringers Re-enactment Society

Stormbringers are primarily a combatant group covering eras from 9th to 15th century (War of the Roses). For the earlier periods we fight as either a warband or yer average nasty bunch of cut-throat mercenaries. For the medieval aspect we have adopted the more civilised approach, fighting as the Household of Ytene, the ancient name of the New Forest, which covers the area where the majority of our society live. The core of the group is in Bournemouth and Christchurch with some members in Southampton.

Although a relatively new society most of us have belonged to, or indeed still enjoy membership, or associate membership, of other societies, such as BPAS, Gun Company, Wessex Dark Age Society, Dorset Levy and the EMA. Most of our female fighters are also members of The Wenches.

As a society our roots are very deeply buried in family and close friendship, at 19 strong those of us who are not actually related have had strong bonds of friendship before Stormbringers was actually “born”. This is very much the backbone of the society with an emphasis on team work both on and off the field.

We pride ourselves on our good name and openness. We very much enjoy collaborating with other societies. During the winter months we often train with other re-enactors such as The Stags. Ever seeking to improve and evolve our combat skills. Many of us either have or are learning other relevant crafts as we are also now exploring the avenues of Living History. Within the society there are a number of members who have strong leanings towards different eras and can happily talk comprehensively to members of the public in layman’s terms, it is a strong ethic that without the public we would not have the freedom to enjoy our hobby so extensively, thus any one of us, no matter how hot or tired will converse or, on occasion, allow people to examine clothing and armour or to explain the history and usage of weaponry.

We are as happy to do small local fundraising shows as we are to do the large battles, such as Tewkesbury. Last winter we supplied clothing, chain mail and helmets to a local school for their production of “Jabberwocky”.

Stormbringers is lead by Jaymz “Twig” Dunne, aided by Craig Broster and Su Vivienne. Craig co-organising the Medieval aspects of the society and Su the Dark Age side of things. All supported by a strong, loyal team of dedicated re-enactors.

The aims of our society, aside from the paramount rule of ensuring safety at all times, are: to ensure that those watching, and those fighting alongside or opposite are having as much fun as we are, that the standards of combat and “hit” remain high and we are friendly and approachable to everyone.