TRAIN as a Roman gladiator and take part in a dramatic fight to the death - that's the call to arms of a battle reenactment group with a twist.

'Ludis Brittanica' is staging an epic battle at Dorchester Corn Exchange this summer, and is recruiting people to compete as gladiators, in full costume and with weapons.

Gladiators-in-training will learn the ancient arts of amphitheatre show fighting and emerge as fully-fledged fighters, according to organiser Callum Jenkins-Teague.

Mr Jenkins-Teague, who runs Roman history tours in the county town, said he is looking for people who can attend three months of training sessions, which will involve "agility training, reaction training and learning the style and skill of the weapons".

Mr Jenkins-Teague said: "I've always wanted to make our rich Roman history a highlight of Dorset - it's such a colourful period in time.

"Together with my business partner and friend, James, we'll be bringing the Roman gladiator festival show into the 21st century.

"We welcome any and all applicants to join - it's all about your reaction skills, rather than body type.

"The sessions will help people build strength, stamina and agility, as well as having a nice social aspect."

But, despite intensive training in Roman weaponry and fighting techniques, nobody will get hurt for real during the battles.

Mr Jenkins-Teague added: "Battles are choreographed but it's up to the individual fighter - on the day they might think "let's really go for it".

"It all comes down to learning an incredible form of showmanship - it's about making it theatrical."

Mr Jenkins-Teague said the show will be a lively event - and, just as in Roman times - audience participation is key.

"The crowd decides who lives or dies, but it's win-win for everyone.

"The event will be a lovely day out with friends, delicious food, and the adrenaline buzz of the performance", he added.

Commenting on how the winner is chosen, the historian was quick to debunk a common misconception.

He said: "A 'thumbs up' was actually the Roman version of flipping a middle finger - it meant the audience wants to see a fight to the death.

"If the thumb is down, it means "drop your weapons and let him live"".

For information search Facebook for 'Cohors I Durotrigumvisit'

To sign up or find out more email cjenko911@live.co.uk