THERE's an opportunity for merriment and frivolity with Tavistock's King and Queen and their noble court at a medieval banquet in the town hall this month.

The Medieval Banquet, organised by Tavistock Town Hall staff, will take place on Friday, February 20 with entertainment from the medieval period being re-enacted by order of King and Queen, Robin and Diana Pike, Tavistock's mayor and mayoress.

A falconer, jugglers, stilt walkers, a charity raffle and auction, and a medieval themed band will be delighting the court.

But to keep order during the banquet the executioner, played by Bob Vellar from Bob's Café, will be placing people in the pillory (stocks), and the only way the prisoners can be freed is if they donate money to Tavistock mayor Robin Pike's chosen charity Children's Hospice South West. Although, people can request to have their pictures taken in the stocks for a donation to CHSW.

The charity auction on the night will see prizes donated by the traders of Tavistock Pannier Market. Money generated from the auction will also go to CHSW.

The evening will begin at 7.30pm. Medieval dress is welcomed. Tickets cost £20 per person and are available from Tavistock Pannier Market, the town hall or from the council offices. The price includes dinner.