Could you be Henry VIII at the Golden Joust at Leeds Castle this May?

by Angela Cole

Do you know someone who could step into a king's shoes for a special event this May bank holiday?

Leeds Castle has launched its Hunt for Henry, looking for a young king to play Henry VIII at the Golden Joust at the castle near Maidstone.

The joust between England and France at last year's event Picture: www.matthewwalkerphotography.com

This year will be the 500th anniversary of the spectacular festival held as part of a summit between Henry VIII met King Francois I of France in 1520 near Calais.

This year's jousting at Leeds Castle near Maidstone needs a young king to step into Henry's shoes for the event.

Do you know someone who's got what it takes to hold court in front of thousands of visitors at The Golden Joust? Do you have the bearing and good looks of a Tudor King?

Today, the castle launches its search for Kent’s best Henry wannabe on Facebook, supported by kmfm. The successful applicant will be paid a King’s ransom, fitted out in the finest royal robes and be required to preside over The Golden Joust on Saturday, May 23, Sunday, May 24 and Bank Holiday Monday, May 25.

The Grand Medieval Joust at Leeds Castle last year included knight's foot combat in the main arena Picture: www.matthewwalkerphotography.com

With the assistance of a knowledgeable medieval courtier, Henry will be expected to walk among his ‘subjects’ for the three days and show a presence at the Henry VIII Royal Banquet on the Saturday in the castle’s Henry VIII Banqueting Hall.

Leeds Castle is searching for a Henry VIII

If you think you have what it takes, visit the Leeds Castle Facebook page and submit a photo and brief description as to why you think you should be crowned King.