651AD. Aethelwald the son of Oswald became sub king of Deira and aligned himself with Penda of Mercia.
655AD. When Penda of Mercia gathered his great army and marched north to confront Oswiu Aethelwald joined forces and led Penda to Oswiu’s fortress at Ludeu (Stirling). Oswiu was besieged and after negotiating a deal Penda turned for home. Oswiu followed and caught up with Penda at the river Winwaed near leeds. Aethelwald took no part in the ensuing battle. Penda was beaten and killed and nothing more was heard of Aethelwald. There was, however, a local rumour that he became a hermit.
