A RECTOR hopes that a misunderstanding that saw armed police swoop on a Chester park to reports of two men in military gear carrying firearms will result in more visitors attending two events at his

The alert was sparked when two men dressed in military uniform carrying what onlookers believed to be firearms were spotted in Chester city centre.

But when the Cheshire and North Wales Alliance Armed Policing Unit arrived in Grosvenor Park on Monday evening they found that the men were promoting the Chester International Living History Fayre.

Also, on Saturday, the West Cheshire Royal British Legion's Chester Poppy Memorial Walk will take place to mark the centenary of the end of the First World War.

Reverend David Chesters OBE, the Rector of St John’s Church, said he hoped the incident would translate into some positive publicity for the forthcoming events.

And warned the police that the Viking encampment due to set up in the park posed no danger to citizens.

He said: “This weekend (12/13 May) the Chester International Living History Fayre takes place in the grounds of the Parish Church of Chester St John the Baptist."

Chester and District Standard:

Reverend David Chesters

He added: “The fayre covers the period from the Romans to WWII and is a very popular event. On Wednesday two of our lads dressed in the uniforms of the armed forces of the USA delivered leaflets around the city.

“How they could be mistaken for Dad's Army or terrorists is a bit mystifying!”

“In addition on Saturday we have the launch of the Royal British Legion's Chester Poppy Memorial Walk which begins with a Short Service and Act or Remembrance, the walkers going out to the songs of WWI like 'Tipperary' 'Pack up your troubles' etc played on the magnificent 'Coronation Organ'.

“And if that weren't enough we have on both Saturday and Sunday the Chester Viking Encampment in the grounds.”

The incident on Monday was laughed off by the armed policing unit, who tweeted a picture of the replica guns with the message: “Firearms deployment Chester after report of males in combat dress and weapons . Established males promoting re-enactment event next week.”

St John the Baptist Church is the oldest and most historic standing building in Chester still used for its original purpose.