Page "William the Conqueror" Paragraph 56

The exact reason for the rebellion is unclear, but it was launched at the wedding of Ralph to a relative of Roger's, held at Exning.

Another earl, Waltheof, although one of William's favourites, was also involved, and there were some Breton lords who were ready to rebel in support of Ralph and Roger's efforts.

Danish aid was also requested by Ralph.

William remained in Normandy while his men in England subdued the revolt.

Roger was unable to leave his stronghold in Herefordshire because of efforts by Wulfstan, the Bishop of Worcester, and Æthelwig, the Abbot of Evesham.

Ralph was bottled up in Norwich Castle by the combined efforts of Odo of Bayeux, Geoffrey de Montbray, Richard fitzGilbert, and William de Warenne.

Ralph eventually left Norwich in the control of his wife and left England, finally ending up in Brittany.

Norwich was besieged and surrendered, with the garrison allowed to go to Brittany.

Meanwhile, the Danish king's brother, Cnut, had finally arrived in England with a fleet of 200 ships, but he was too late as Norwich had already surrendered.

The Danes then raided along the coast before returning home.

William only returned to England later in 1075, to deal with the Danish threat, leaving his wife Matilda in charge of Normandy.

William then celebrated Christmas at Winchester and dealt with the aftermath of the rebellion.

Roger and Waltheof were kept in prison, where Waltheof was executed in May 1076.

Before this, William had returned to the continent, where Ralph had continued the rebellion from Brittany.