The Valhalla Festival takes place at the historic Layer Marney Tower just outside Colchester, and features not just this annual test of strength, but also promises a fun, family weekend with a Viking theme. Events include Mr and Miss Valhalla contests, Viking workshops and re-enactments, as well as spear, knife and axe-throwing, falconry and archery. It’s organised by international event organisers, Scott Horton, owner of the Hercules Gym, and Gordon Evans, director of Zephyr Security.

Scott says, “It’s a real honour for us to be hosting this legendary contest, and the guys involved will have some serious tests to face, including the Farmer’s Walk, where they race along a course with a heavy weight in each hand, and the Atlas Stones – lifting gradually heavier and heavier stones onto a platform at head height. There will be strongmen past and present there to officiate, including Geoff Capes, and Glenn Ross, the current holder of the UK’s Strongest Man title.”

Former Britain’s Strongest Man and world No.2 Steve Winter (see attached photo) says, “This is the chance for competitors to qualify for the final through regional heats and the winner is awarded the title of “England’s Strongest Man”. As a previous winner I’ll be looking how the wannabe champions’ step up to the challenge and enjoying the festival itself which I know is also to honor the forces and modern day warriors we have in our country today”.

Gordon adds, “Also at the festival, we’re having a Viking storyteller for the kids, bouncy castles and face-painting. The idea is there’s something for all the family: re-enactments, the tug-of-war, live music, a bar, hog and ox roasts, pony rides. There’s something for everyone!”

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