BATTLING knights will be fighting to the bitter end this month when an annual event returns to the Spa with a vengeance.

Not the Donkey Derby is back again and this year's theme will be battling knights who will entertain the crowds with daring sword fights and brave combats.

The Lido Park, off Worcester Road, will come alive on Saturday, June 29 from midday, onwards.

The event, which is now into its 35th year, has raised thousands of pounds for local charities thanks to the organisers, Droitwich Spa Round Table, and generous townspeople who have supported it.

Last year's event proved to be a great success when screaming cowboys came riding into town, bringing all the fun of the wild west with them.

This year's Not the Donkey Derby looks set to be just as successful with a bouncy castle and a bucking bronco there to entertain both young and old.

The 14th century tournament will include knights clad in armour weighing up to 84lb or 38kg, handmade out of more than 20,000 steel rings.

Loyal supporters will cheer as knights do battle using authentic steel weapons and sigh for the vanquished heroes as they drop to the ground defeated.

Treasurer of the Spa group, Matthew Watson, urged townspeople to come and join in the fun.

"If we don't get enough support this year then we may not be able to organise the event next year so we really do need the public's help," he said.

"The day is a perfect way for people, both young and old, to relax and really enjoy themselves while raising money for local charities."