A WORKING replica of a medieval siege weapon that would have once sparked fear into the hearts of castle defenders has been built at Corfe.

The trebuchet, constructed by National Trust volunteers at Corfe Castle, is almost life-sized and replaces a smaller replica which used to be at the historic attraction.

As a working replica it has been successfully put through its paces. However, while once this type of weapon would hurl large stones and even infected corpses into enemy fortifications, the National Trust opted for water-filled footballs for its test shots.

National Trust bosses invited the media and guests to watch the catapult launch footballs up to 70-yards in the shadow of the castle.

Corfe Castle learning and interpretation officer Pam White said: "King John was a frequent visitor to Corfe Castle and he took a trebuchet with him wherever he went as part of his baggage train, so we decided we needed one here today.

"It has already become a firm favourite with our visitors and it really helps to bring the medieval past to life."

The Corfe Castle trebuchet was built by volunteers Bernard Longstaff, Tony Underwood, Dave Hancock and David Grenfell.

It stands around 12ft tall, with a 16ft throwing arm, and is made from a single ash tree from National Trust-owned Langton West Wood, just a few miles from Corfe village.

The National Trust says the trebuchet will remain at Corfe Castle and be demonstrated as much as possible for visitors.

Trebuchet's were invented by the Chinese around 300BC and first made their way to Europe during the medieval era.

The word 'trebuchet' comes from the old French word 'trebucher', meaning to throw over.