HISTORY repeated itself today (Monday, August 25) when villagers recreated a photograph taken more than 100 years ago to celebrate a triumphant siege during the Boer War.

In May 1900, hundreds of villagers gathered on the green in Hunwick, near Crook, County Durham.

The community had come together to celebrate the Relief of Mafeking, a decisive British victory during the Second Boer War that made a hero out of the future Scout founder Robert Baden-Powell.

A photograph, which now hangs on the wall of the Joiner’s Arms pub, captures the sense of excitement among the villagers that day.

Landlord Ian Richardson has long been fascinated by the sense of community spirit the image evokes and decided to recreate the shot at the Bank Holiday summer fete.

At 2.30pm today (Monday, August 25), residents of all ages took time out from the entertainment and refreshments on offer and gathered on the green.

The Northern Echo photographer Sarah Caldecott, meanwhile, adopted the same position as the original photographer back in 1900 and, a few clicks and smiles later, the scene was complete.

Mr Richardson said: “I came across the photo five or six years ago when we were doing out the pub. We were given it as part of a collection to hang up on the wall.

“I think it shows a real sense of community spirit, with everyone coming out to celebrate Britain’s victory together.

“This is the first year we have held a fair like this and I thought it would be wonderful to recreate the photo and the community spirit it depicts.

“I plan to hang the new photo in the pub too. It will be great to see them side by side.”

The Second Boer War (October 1899 to May 1902) was a battle between the United Kingdom and the South African Republic and the Orange Free State in which the former proved victorious.

The Siege of Mafeking was the most famous British action during the conflict and saw British troops, under the command of Baden-Powell, successfully defend the South African town of Mahikeng for 217 days.

When the siege was lifted, on May 17, 1900, it marked a turn of fortunes for the British and celebrations took place across the country.