Navy

Tower Of London Hosts Unique Medieval Ceremony

Sailors from the Dutch naval ship HNLMS Johan de Witt have taken part in a medieval ceremony at the Tower of London.

The Ceremony of the Constables Dues tradition started in the 14th century when King Richard II instigated a toll system.

Ships passing the Tower of London would have to pay a toll, or as it was put, their dues.

That became unworkable over the centuries as river traffic increased, so was restricted to Naval vessels.

In more recent times, money has been replaced in favour of a barrel of rum or even cockles and oysters!

Laura Hawkins went along to find out more.