Iconic Anniversary

Most Scots on the planet will probably recognise this photograph. It is the magnificent statue of King Robert the Bruce, King of Scots at Bannockburn near Stirling in Scotland. The statue commemorates the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. The anniversary is mostly remembered on 24 June but the battle was fought over 2 days. It started on 23 June and King Robert secured victory over King Edward IIs army on 24 June 1314.

The battle and victory was a combination of Bruce's demand in 1313 that all remaining Balliol supporters recognise his kingship or forfiet their estates, and the imminent surrender of the English garrison under seige in Stirling Castle. This combination prompted Edward to invade Scotland with the largest English army ever to invade Scotland. It was a resounding victory for the Scots. Edward II and his surviving army were pursued back to the border by Sir James 'the Black' Douglas. Had Edward been captured it may well have led to immediate English recognition of Scots demands. However his escape meant he could regroup and continue the war.

Looking ahead in time, a new presentation centre is to be built at Bannockburn in time for the 700th anniversary of the battle in 2014. The BBC are making a documentary series on the Battle for transmission in 2014 and are apparently planning a 2 year archaeological dig leading up to the 4 part series. There might be some good blip opportunities when that gets going.

As it happens it seems possible that the Scottish Government will be running its independence referendum around the time of the 700th anniversary. Co-incidence or what?