THE BIG battle may have been scheduled for Sunday – but Saturday’s preparations were equally as explosive.

As the clock struck one on the opening day of The Battle of Vinegar Hill re-enactment, excited locals gathered to witness a bloody clash between Rebels and Redcoats.

Crowds lined the Market Square up to Duffry Hill, where a tense atmosphere culminated in an ear-shattering bang.

Children (and sheepish adults) let out a shriek at the sudden thunderous noise, as it was made official – the battle of Enniscorthy town had begun.

The fire of cannons and bang of muskets continued as the Redcoats marched through the smoke-filled streets to a chorus of boos.

Cheers rang out at the sight of the Rebels, but this was short lived as a British commander roared: “Make ready!” and the soldiers lined up their weapons.

The ensuing shots left the Irish lying dead on the ground, drawing the largest ‘boo’ yet from the passionate audience.

The remaining brave Rebels continued to march down the hill with their make-shift pikes, as local journalist Jimmy Gahan provided commentary on the history of the event.

Shots continued to ring out as crowds continued to grow, including business-owners standing out at their shop fronts to catch a glimpse.

As the re-enactors reached the Market Square, they finished their battle surrounded by hay bales and children and women dressed as peasants.

The authentic feel for the era was provided by tables lined up with food from 1798, including rabbits and a pig’s head.

A brief downpour didn’t dampen any spirits, as the Rebels continued to fight valiantly, and at one stage took a Redcoat as prisoner.

“What should we do with him,” an older Rebel asked the children. “Hang him!” they screeched, “Put his head in the gallows!”

Another Redcoat stopped briefly to tie his shoelace, before looking up to spot his comrades leaving without him.

“Where are you all going!?” he yelped in a strong British accent. “You can’t leave me; they’re all bloody Irish!”

Following the fantastic clash, the trip back in history continued in the main fortifications in the town – the National 1798 Rebellion Centre and Enniscorthy Castle.

For full story, see this week’s Echo.