£40k target for sale of armour

These are two 16th century suits of armour owned by the Lichfield Bower committee which are to be sold off in a bid to raise more than £40,000 to help save the historic event.

The bower is under threat after last year's wash-out celebration caused a financial crisis for organisers.

The armour, two of four gifted to the bower, are believed to have been worn in medieval jousting tournaments and were worn in the procession until the 1960s when it was decided they were too valuable and delicate.

Richard Winterton, who owns the city's Auction House, where the suits will be sold, said: "They are very fine and imposing suits but would have offered very little protection in battle with the increased use of hand firearms, which were being introduced."