A TALK on how North Yorkshire residents fled from a rampaging Scottish army is to take place.

In August 1138, residents living in Northallerton or the nearby villages were preparing to flee southwards with whatever valuables they could carry after refugees from the North-East reported many people in County Durham had been enslaved or slaughtered by the Scots.

A talk on how the town and its inhabitants were saved from destruction is taking place at The Forum in Northallerton on August 24, from 7.30pm.

Matthew Strickland, professor of Medieval History, will describe how the largest battle in Britain since 1066 became the greatest day in Northallerton’s history.

This story of chivalry and barbarity is one of a series of community events organised to commemorate the 880th anniversary of the Battle of the Standard, supported by Hambleton District Council, which has been arranged by Northallerton & District Local History Society.

For tickets, £5 adults and £3 children, visit; forumnorthallerton.org.uk or ring the box office on 01609-776230.