Viking settlement revived from the ancient days of old Kroks Steath

Jun 20 2008 by Laura Sharpe, Liverpool Daily Post

CROXTETH Country Park was invaded by Vikings yesterday with the return of an award- winning educational event.

“Meet the Vikings” saw the park transformed into Kroks Steath, a Viking settlement of 998AD.

The children took part in the daily chores and learnt about the culture, customs and belief of people living in the area more than 1,000 years ago.

Throughout June, children will dress in full costume and try their hands at wood turning, metal work and weaponry.

They will also have the chance to make bread, cook stews, spin wool, make dyes and hear sagas about mythical Viking tales.

Liverpool city council’s executive member for the environment, Cllr Berni Turner, said: “This is one of the most popular educational events in the park’s calendar and it gives young people the chance to step into the fascinating world of the Vikings and learn all about Liverpool’s Viking heritage.

“There is a real emphasis on educating youngsters through fun activities and letting them get involved in exciting events makes history come alive for the children.”

Education officer Martin O’Connor, who works on the Viking days, and has created a Viking longhouse in the woods, said: “The response from children and teachers is amazing.

“They come here and find that looking, sounding and smelling like a Viking makes for a lasting educational experience.”

There is evidence that the Norse Vikings settled in Merseyside from Ireland and the Isle of Man.