VILLAGERS fighting plans to stage medieval jousting tournaments are due to hold a public meeting tonight.

More than 100 residents are expected to voice their anger at proposals to stage indoor contests at the New Forest Activity Centre at Black Knoll, Brockenhurst.

Campaigners claim it will destroy the character of the village by creating excessive noise and attracting a huge amount of traffic to the area.

Posters advertising the meeting are headed: “Black Knoll – Death Knell?” They add: “Your village faces unprecedented threats to its environment, tranquillity and way of life.”

The tournaments are due to be held in a large barn at the end of a narrow lane leading off Rhinefield Road.

Businessman Alan Girling, who owns the barn, says the shows – due to start on Sunday – will give the local economy a much-needed boost.

The meeting will be held in the village hall at 7.15pm.