We have recently received some decent quality foam long swords. In the past we always made our own weapons because we couldn’t really afford anything else. Over time we developed a really durable short sword, about two feet in length. It was incredibly light and as a result the fighting was very fast. The short length of the swords means that the fighting is extremely close- you are right next to your opponent.

Oddly enough you’d think you could reach out and punch them but the blades move so quickly that such things are not possible- you’d get your arm sliced off or be wounded for leaving yourself open.

I enjoy fighting with weapons and we have been doing so for several years. It certainly makes one appreciate the skill and strength required – and why daily training for knights and soldiers was necessary. And I think this firsthand experience is invaluable for writing combat in the novel I’m working on.

I try to be open minded to the...