In truth we never planned to be at the Ribes International Viking Festival in Denmark before the last day. We’ve met Vikings before and they always hang around for ages. (We don’t mind Susan and Easton, and the photo is lovely) They sail their boats everywhere, make a lot of noise and pretend to rape and pillage when all they want to do is settle down.

We have rowed a Viking longship, albeit on Derwent water in the lake District, we’re sure it cant be much different off the Scandinavian coast, although possibly more wind and bigger waves. Ian made a very good viking skipper even if he steered in circles. Wherever we go Vikings have been first so we’re sure well bump into them again in the not too distant future.

The Ribes festival celebrates everything Viking and we haven’t even had chance to laugh at the silly, but authentic, costumes.