Armour worn by King Henry VIII on display at Windsor Castle

Armour worn by King Henry VIII is being dusted off for a programme of themed family events at Windsor Castle.

The events will be to mark the publication of a study into European arms and armour in the Royal Collection - the first in more than 100 years.

Arms & Armour: In the Collection of Her Majesty The Queen: European Armour is a new book published by Royal Collection Trust which covers more than 250 items, including complete armours, stirrups and saddles.

In the collection is armour made for Henry VIII in about 1540 which is on display at Windsor Castle.

Research has revealed that the armour was enlarged on several occasions to accommodate his weight gain in later life. Strips of metal were added to expand the waistline to the final measurement of 138cm. 

Armour-themed family events will take place at the castle from Saturday, 30 July to Sunday, 21 August, including armour demonstrations, dressing-up sessions and art workshops. 

Visit www.royalcollection.org.uk for more information.