EXCITING Roman re-enactments awaits visitors to Caerleon this weekend when Empire: A Roman Spectacular takes places in Caerleon Amphitheatre and the National Roman Legion Museum between 11am and 5pm on tomorrow and Sunday.

Caerleon’s Amphitheatre will echo to the sound of marching feet as Britainˆs top Roman re-enactment group, the Ermine Street Guard, celebrate their 40th anniversary and return to Caerleon to amaze crowds with outstanding military displays. Visitors will be able to watch as horses are put through their paces in the arena and marvel at the power of the mighty Roman siege weapons.

Back by popular demand are the gladiators, Ars Dimicandi, all the way from Italy; a group of eight handsome Italian men showing off the skills and violence that the Romans loved to watch in the amphitheatre.

There will also be chance to try gladiator school as children and grown-ups are put through their paces to take a sword and try out a few moves! The rest of the family can browse stalls showing mosaic making, willow weaving, pottery or visit a Roman doctor. There will be tours of the Roman remains, children ˆs activities, the Junior Legion, face painting and the chance to try on some armour that a modern soldier would wear at the Territorial Army stand.

A day entry to the event will cost £4.50 for adults, £2.50 for children and £12 for a family, while under-threes are free.