The Battle of Blore Heath

It took place on 23rd September 1459. This was the first battle of the Wars of the Roses. There were over 20,000 people at Blore Heath, armies, followers and watchers.

Over 2,400 died, many were injured.There is a cross where Audley died. It was a fierce battle. Many people descended from the armies still might live here. It was a fierce battle. Many local people may be descended from soldiers in the armies.

Alex

The Wars of the Roses lasted 30 years. It was a violent civil war. Two familes arose from the sons of Edward III. Lancastrian and Yorkists each claimed a right to the throne. In 1459 the king was Heny VI a very weak leader of the Lancastrian family. His ruthlss wife Queen Margaret of Anjou started the Wars of the Roses to get rid of the Yorkist family.

Andrew D

The Yorkists were led by Lord Salisbury who wished to over throw the Lancastrian government. The Lancastrians were led by Lord Audley. Both of these men were experienced soldiers. Lord Audley chose a good position on a ridge of high land on the southern edge of Blore Heath. Lord Salisbury and the Lancastrian army looked north-east over heathland. The two armies faced each other accros the Hemp Valley (see map above). The steep bank of the valley gave Salisbury a strong defensive position.

Rebecca & Alexandra

The longbow men on both sides started the battle but the armies were too far apart for the arrows to do any damage. Salisbury tried to play a trick. He told his army to retreat. The Lancastrians mounted their horses and followed the Yorkists but they had not really retreated.

Thomas, Declan & Andrew P