SEVERAL hundred re-enactors of the American Civil War are at Kiplin Hall today for their second day of educational entertainment.

The grounds of the hall, near Richmond, have been taken over with tents and equipment to take visitors back to the time of the four-year war between 1861 and 1865.

American Civil War enthusiasts are invited to spend the day at the impressive camp and watch arena demonstrations, including a battle with infantry and artillery at 3pm.

A group of those taking part in the bank holiday re-enactment weekend has been helped in their quest for authenticity by The Green Howards Regimental Museum.

They went to the museum, in the centre of Richmond, to learn about a Green Howards soldier, Lawrence Curry, who left Britain to become an American officer during the Civil War.

The museum's display includes many of Curry's personal items, including his camp bed, as well as his commission signed by President Abraham Lincoln.

Re-enactor Corporal Greg Agar, from York, who is a member of the 2nd Battalion Wisconsin Regiment and the Kirby family from Tynemouth, were shown the Curry exhibits by the Museum's Curator, Major Roger Chapman.

"Curry was a fascinating man, and the Regiment is proud of its links, though him, with the American Civil War.

"We were delighted to give Corporal Agar and the Kirby family a glimpse into what life was like for an officer during the war," said Mr Chapman.

Kiplin Hall will be open today between 11am and 5pm. Tickets at the gate cost £8 for adults, £4 for children and a family ticket is £20.

For more information, call (01748) 818178.