KING HAROLD SUMMONS THE FYRD
On April 1st, 1066, King Harold II took action in defence of the Realm and summoned the ‘Fyrd’ to watch over the coasts. There are watch posts all along the south coast from Bosham to Dover. The Fyrd is the Anglo-Saxon militia and is made up of men drawn from the farms, villages and towns of southern England.
EDITORIAL
HAS THE FYRD BEEN SUMMONED TO EARLY?
The ‘Summoning of the Fyrd’ seems to be at odds with the intelligence received recently from Normandy. Duke William’s preparations have only just begun and it is unlikely that all the ships required for the invasion will be completed for another two months at least.
Of course, there is always that loose cannon Tostig to think about but he has little support in Wessex and there is little to suggest that he has the money, power or men to mount a serious invasion attempt.
It may be a calculated show of strength by the King causing William, and his nobles, second thoughts about invading our England.
Let’s just hope that the Fyrd do prove to be an effective defence.
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