SHOPPERS will get more than they bargained for next weekend when the Civil War comes to town.

Around 150 soldiers carrying muskets and 16ft pikes will clash in the streets as the Battle of Maidstone is played out on the spot where it took place 360 years ago.

Royalists and Parliamentarians fought a bloddy battle in the streets of Maidstone in the rain on the night of June 1, 1648, but this time, there may not be any actual bloodshed, but crowds can witness the grit and gore of a battle inches close up.

This time the soldiers are from the Sealed Knot Society amd will be ready for battle between 11am and noon on Sunday, June 1.

Barry Upton, a Lieutenant Colonel and commanding officer of the Prince Rupert’s Blew Regiment of Foote from the Sealed Knot Society, said: "We will be firing muskets and a canon so it will be very noisy."

David Pickett, one of the organisers of the Battle of Maidstone 1648 festivities, will play the part of the Royalist Governor of Maidstone, Sir Gamaliel Dudley.

"We are very lucky to re-enact the battle 360 years to the day and on the very spot."

The Royalists’ last stand was in St Faith’s churchyard but for the purposes of the re-enactment, the surrender will be taken in Week Street outside Marks & Spencer.

Some wounded soldiers will also be taken to a living history tableau at Maidstone Museum in St Faith’s Street,from 11am to 4pm where there could be plenty of 'blood', as a surgeon treats their wounds.

Battle of Maidstone events are sponsored by the Kent Messenger, Palace Estates, Gullands, Mall Chequers, Maidstone Studios, The Stone Shop, Town Centre Management, Maidstone council, Royal Star Arcade, dha planning, Gallagher Group and G Forces.