Medieval sword school to bring A-list stars to town

Aug 14 2008 by Judith Phillips, North Wales Weekly News

SUPERSTARS like Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom could be crossing swords in Conwy if a unique project to set up a medieval fight school on the quay goes ahead.

The idea of setting up an Academy of Chivalry and medieval forge, where tourists could watch the spectacle of knights fighting and see swords being made by a world famous armourer, has come from Bryan Tunstall, who runs the Knights Gone By shop in the town.

He says the scheme is supported by some of the top fight choreographers in the UK and Hollywood.

“Many of them are looking for a location outside London to teach their actors,” he said. “Conwy is ideal as it’s well served by an excellent hospitality industry.”

Bryan says it’s not implausible that Hollywood A-list actors like Johnny Depp could be receiving lessons in Conwy.

His partner in the scheme would be Norwegian Magnus Sigurdsson, who has established a forge at Mochdre.

“He’s responsible for making the swords and armour for just about every historical film produced within the last 20 years,” said Bryan.

“He’s worked on Lord of the Rings, Pirates of the Caribbean and 300 to name but a few.”

The pair have received a personal message from Johnny Depp saying he looks forward to seeing the project established.

“He’s worked closely with Magnus in the past and no doubt would wish to continue to do so,” said Bryan.

The pair would like to establish the attraction in existing units on the quay which were to be part of the recently aborted redevelopment scheme.

“There would be a large medieval show forge where people can see the swords and armour being produced,” said Bryan.

“This will be open all year and will be free.

“The forge will run weekend courses for people wishing to dabble in the arts of the swordsmith. These courses will be advertised globally.”

Existing businesses on the quay are enthusiastic. Margaret Williams, of The Smallest House, said: “It would be an attraction in keeping with the town’s history and would make good use of the derelict buildings.”