REVELATIONS about the Battle of the Standard which was fought on the outskirts of Northallerton in 1138, are to be revealed at a special lecture being staged as part of the 880th anniversary celebrations.

The battle was the biggest on British soil following the Battle of Hastings in 1066 and involved English forces fighting for King Stephen defeating the Scottish invaders who were backing King David 1 of Scotland's claim to the throne.

Professor of medieval history Matthew Strickland will give the background to the battle as many locals prepared to flee to avoid the advancing Scottish hoards and how the result helped shape the town and the surrounding area. The lecture organised by Hambleton Council and Northallerton and District History Society is part of a series of events in the town. Tickets are £5.