The Bridge at Stamford

This is the the modern bridge across the river Derwent at a village called Stamford Bridge. A natural outcrop of sandstone provided a crossing ford here for Roman soldiers, and by 1066 there was a wooden bridge. On Sept 20th 1066 Harold Hardrada and his Viking soldiers had been victorious in battle at Gate Fulford and the gates of York were forced open. The city had no option but to take an oath recognising Hardrada as their king. To ensure the city stayed loyal to him Hardrada demanded hostages, 150 sons of the cities wealthiest families. Hostages were to be exchanged on Sept 25th at the crossroads near Stamford Bridge.
Come back tomorrow to find out what happened next!