Anniversary plans for 'seismic' clash

PLANS have been announced to celebrate the 500th anniversary of one of Scotland's most historic events.

- By Richard Elias

The Battle of Linlithgow Bridge saw some of the bloodiest fighting witnessed in the country.

To mark the anniversary, local community groups have come together to create a series of special events from battle reenactments and jousting to a specially-created beer - with thousands of visitors expected.

Entitled 'Battle 500', the aim is to raise the profile of the clash and the battlefield, which saw the Earl of Lennox routed by the Earl of Arran's army.

Following the death of James IV at the Battle of Flodden in September 1513, Scotland found itself in the middle of a power struggle involving the wealthiest and most influential families.

Disputed

King James V ascended the throne aged just 17 months and, at first, his mother, Margaret Tudor - sister of England's King Henry VIII - was his guardian.