The county’s biggest celebration of its legendary hero starts on Monday, August 2.

The free event, organised by Nottinghamshire County Council, starts at 11am with a ceremony in the jousting arena.

Many of the festival’s favourite entertainers will be back including Alan a’Dale and Festa, What A Palaver, Zebediah the Ratcatcher and the Medieval Maniax.

Also returning are medieval alchemist Dr John Greene, madcap jester Peterkin the Fool, longbow archer and storyteller, William of Sherwood, historical storytellers Past Imagined and the Singing Plague Victims.

Medieval stunt group Legends will recreate the daring exploits of the outlaws and the Sheriff’s men with live action skirmishes.

The ever-popular jousting tournaments will take place on Wednesday, a week tomorrow, and a week on Sunday.

There are three evening events — Rhythms Of Sherwood drumming workshops on Tuesday, August 3, a Twilight Tales walk with storytellers and medieval musician Trevor James on Thursday, August 5, and An Evening Of Medieval Merriment on Saturday, August 7.

Throughout the festival, costumed characters will demonstrate a variety of ancient crafts and skills.