lots of laughter on this thread (Hrothgar, I'm watching with you)- & if anyone wants to see a pic of the Roaring Forties tyr my folk club website - www.loadeddog.live.com.au

The other suggestion for helpers on the day was the SCR (Society for Creative Anachronism) & the only SCR member I know well carries a 12' pike. Maybe we'll invite her.

Charley - the last time I saw her was at the Maritime Museum when the 40's & John & Margaret were singing on the Batavia (wrecked on WA coast 1629??) with further entertainment provided by a troop of 17th Century Dutch pikemen (2 of whom were women).
I assume you've been to the Maritime Museum?

sandra